Resource Base

A calm, structured and sensory‑rich space where children learn, communicate and thrive.

Our Resource Base offers specialist early years provision for children aged 2–4 with significant and complex SEND. It is a calm, predictable and nurturing environment designed to support communication, regulation, independence and joyful exploration.

We believe every child is capable, curious and full of potential. Our approach is gentle, attuned and highly personalised, with learning shaped around each child’s strengths, interests and developmental needs.

Who the Resource Base is for

The Resource Base supports children who:

• need a highly structured, low‑arousal environment

• benefit from sensory‑rich learning

• require specialist communication support

• need small‑step developmental pathways

• may find busy or unpredictable environments overwhelming

• require close adult support to engage, regulate and learn

Places are allocated through Stockport SEND processes and agreed by the Local Authority.

Our Environment

The Resource Base is designed to feel calm, safe and predictable. Children learn in:

• low‑stimulus spaces that reduce sensory overload

• clearly zoned areas for communication, play, movement and exploration

• sensory‑rich experiences that support regulation and engagement

• outdoor learning spaces that offer nature‑based calm and curiosity

• quiet breakout areas for rest, regulation and 1:1 work

Every part of the environment is intentional, gentle and supportive.

Communication‑Focused Practice

Communication is at the heart of our Resource Base. We use:

• responsive, attuned interactions

• visual supports and schedules

• Makaton signing

• intensive interaction

• communication‑rich routines

• sensory stories and objects of reference

• small‑group communication sessions

Children are supported to express themselves, connect with others and build early language in ways that feel safe and meaningful.

Small‑Step Developmental Pathways (S1–S7)

We follow clear developmental pathways that help children build skills gradually and confidently. These pathways include:

• early communication

• sensory regulation

• physical development

• early cognition

• independence skills

• social interaction

Each child’s pathway is personalised, reviewed regularly and shared with families.

Learning Through Play and Sensory Exploration

Children learn through:

• sensory play

• movement and physical exploration

• nature‑rich experiences

• cause‑and‑effect activities

• early problem‑solving

• music, rhythm and sound

• creative and tactile materials

Learning is hands‑on, joyful and deeply attuned to each child’s developmental stage.

Predictable Routines and Gentle Transitions

Children thrive when they know what to expect. We use:

• consistent daily rhythms

• visual timetables

• calm transitions

• clear expectations

• supportive adult modelling

This helps children feel safe, regulated and ready to learn.

Specialist Support

Children in the Resource Base may receive input from:

• Speech and Language Therapists

• Occupational Therapists

• Physiotherapists

• Educational Psychologists

We work closely with professionals to ensure children receive the right support at the right time.

Partnership with Families

Families are central to our work. We:

• share progress regularly

• celebrate strengths

• listen closely to family insight

• co‑create targets

• offer guidance and support

• work together through transitions

We value families as experts in their child’s development.

Integration with the Main Nursery

Children in the Resource Base access the wider nursery through:

• carefully planned visits

• supported interactions

• nature‑rich experiences

• shared outdoor learning

• small‑group opportunities

Integration is gentle, child‑led and emotionally safe.

A Place to Grow with Confidence

Our Resource Base is a calm, structured and joyful space where children can explore, communicate and flourish. Every child is seen, valued and supported to grow at their own pace.