At Story Rangers, inclusion is not an add-on or a separate offer. It is part of who we are, how we plan, and how we show up for children and families every single week.

Every child is unique, and we believe every child deserves to take part in activities in a way that feels safe, supportive, and genuinely enjoyable for them. Whether a child needs extra reassurance, flexibility, sensory support, or simply time and space to settle, we will always adapt to meet them where they are.

Learning, Reflecting, and Doing Better

In 2025, we took a significant step forward in our inclusion journey by completing Silver SEND Inclusion training across our franchise network. The training was led by Nicole Bateman, whose depth of knowledge, practical advice, and passion for inclusion made a lasting impression on our whole team. Nicole has an incredible way of combining evidence-based practice with warmth, empathy, and real-world understanding, and we cannot recommend her highly enough.

This training gave us the time and space to reflect on what we already do well, and, just as importantly, where we could do better. It strengthened our confidence, deepened our understanding of neurodiversity, and helped us embed even more thoughtful, neuro-affirming strategies into our sessions. Inclusion is not something you ever “finish”, and this training has reinforced our commitment to ongoing learning and improvement.

A Team You Can Trust

Our sessions are led by experienced education professionals, including a qualified SENCO, and supported by a wider team with extensive experience working with children with SEND. More than qualifications, though, what matters most to us is how children and families feel in our sessions.

We pride ourselves on being approachable, flexible, and non-judgemental. Parents and carers know their children best, and we always work in partnership with families, listening carefully and adapting wherever needed so each child feels understood and supported.

Helping Children Feel Prepared and Confident

We know that new situations can feel daunting, for children and adults alike. That is why families receive a personalised social story at the point of booking. This helps children understand what the session will look like before they arrive, from the space and routines to the types of activities they might encounter. For many children, this advance preparation makes a huge difference, helping them arrive feeling calmer and more confident.

Clear Visual Support During Sessions

Within our sessions, we use visual timetables supported by Makaton signs and symbols to help children understand the structure of the class. Knowing what is happening and what is coming next can be incredibly reassuring, particularly for children who find transitions or uncertainty challenging. These visual supports are there for everyone and are used naturally as part of our sessions.

Supporting Regulation and Sensory Needs

Every Story Rangers session includes access to a Regulation Station. This provides children with calming resources such as fidget toys and sensory tools, which they can use whenever they need to. There is no pressure to use these resources in a particular way or at a particular time. We recognise that regulation looks different for every child, and we aim to create an environment where children feel comfortable doing what they need to feel settled and safe.

A Flexible, Child-Led Approach

Some children dive straight in. Others prefer to watch, take breaks, or join in gradually. All of these responses are valid and welcomed. Our sessions are designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing children to participate in ways that work for them, without expectation or comparison.

Above all, we want families to know this: you are welcome at Story Rangers. Your child does not need to fit a mould to take part. We will always work with you, listen to you, and adapt our sessions so your child can enjoy stories, creativity, and connection in a way that feels right for them.

Inclusion is part of our everyday practice, from planning and training to the moments that matter most within sessions. We are proud to offer classes where children with SEND, and their families, feel safe, supported, and truly welcomed.