Lewisham Early Years SEND: Inclusion In Practice - Working Within Ordinarily Available Provision

Working Within Ordinarily Available Provision

Why it matters
Ordinarily Available Provision (OAP) describes the high-quality inclusive practice that should be in place for all children. It forms the foundation before additional or more targeted support is considered.

In practice
This includes clear routines, well-organised environments, visual support, accessible resources and responsive adult interactions. These are not “extra” SEND strategies – they are part of everyday good early years practice and can remove barriers before they become bigger difficulties.

Consistency matters. If one practitioner uses a visual timetable, another gives lengthy verbal instructions and another changes the routine altogether, it becomes difficult to know whether a child is struggling because of an additional need or because the support around them is inconsistent.

When strong universal provision is embedded across the team, it becomes much easier to identify what a child may need beyond what is ordinarily available.

Top Tip
Make sure everyone is doing the same things, in the same way. When your everyday provision is consistent, it’s much easier to see what a child might need next.

Worldwide / national / local events in October 2026

• Level 3 SENCO programme begins 5^th October
• Dyslexia Awareness Week 5^th – 11^th October
• ADHD Awareness Month