Referrals & Partnerships
Choosing the right placement for a child or young person with SEND is a significant decision. Whether you are a Local Authority professional, SENCO, social worker or parent, our Referrals Team is here to make the process clear, responsive and supportive from the very first conversation.
At TCES, we work in partnership to secure placements that are carefully matched, therapeutically informed and built around long-term success.
MEET OUR REFERRALS TEAM
Isabelle Cooke
Admissions Manager
Izzy leads on admissions across TCES and brings extensive experience in SEND and SEMH education. She works closely with Local Authorities, schools and families to review complex referrals and ensure that placements are appropriate, well-planned and sustainable.
Paul Olokodana
Partnerships Manager
Paul leads on relationships with Local Authorities and professional partners across our schools and services. He supports families and professionals throughout the placement journey, ensuring clear communication and a joined-up approach.
How to Make a Referral
Referrals to TCES are typically made by a child or young person’s Local Authority SEN or EHC Team.
We also welcome initial enquiries from parents and carers who would like to explore whether TCES may be suitable. While parents cannot formally commission a placement, we are always happy to provide information and guide you through the next steps with your Local Authority.
To progress a placement, we must receive a Formal Consultation from the commissioning Local Authority responsible for agreeing and funding the provision.
Our Referral Process
1. Initial Review of Documentation
We review the EHCP and all supporting professional reports to determine whether we can meet the young person’s needs within our therapeutic education model.
2. Placement Discussion
Where appropriate, we may arrange a professional discussion to explore suitability in more detail.
3. Conditional Offer
If we believe we can meet need, we issue a conditional offer to the Local Authority.
4. Planning & Assessment Phase
Upon acceptance, we liaise closely with parents, carers and professionals to plan induction. This may include:
- School visits
- Home visits
- Transitional support planning
- Risk and therapeutic assessment
Our aim is always to ensure that every placement is carefully prepared, reducing anxiety and increasing the likelihood of long-term success.
A Partnership Approach
We recognise that successful placements rely on strong partnership working. Our Referrals Team collaborates closely with:
- SEN Case Officers
- Educational Psychologists
- Social Care teams
- Virtual Schools
- SEND Tribunals and mediation services
- Parents and carers
We are committed to maintaining open communication throughout the consultation, placement and review process.
Speak to Our Team
If you would like to:
– Discuss a potential SEND placement
– Explore therapeutic education options
– Learn more about our primary, secondary, outreach or college pathways
– Understand placement availability across TCES sites
Our team is always happy to talk things through. Book a call at a time that works for you: