The Graduated approach involves a four-part cycle: Assess, Plan, Do, and Review. This approach emphasises early identification and intervention, with ongoing monitoring and adjustments to provision as needed. This should follow four stages:
- Assess: This stage involves identifying a child's needs through observation, assessment, and gathering information from parents and other professionals.
- Plan: A plan is developed to outline the specific support and provision required to address the identified needs.
- Do: The planned provision is put into action, with the setting providing the necessary support and resources.
- Review: The effectiveness of the provision is reviewed regularly, and the plan is adjusted as needed to ensure the child is making progress and achieving their goals.
This cycle is repeated with each review informing the next stage of assessment, planning, and action.
Having clear, person‑centred outcomes is key to the Graduated Approach. These outcomes help us check whether the support we are providing is bringing about real, meaningful change for the child or young person and their family.
A helpful way to develop these outcomes is to use a person‑centred planning approach. This ensures that we listen carefully to the child and family, understand what matters most to them, and build support around their strengths and needs.