Educational
We support learning at every stage
From early years to young adulthood, our educational services are designed to empower children and young people with Down syndrome through tailored support, expert guidance, and inclusive approaches.
Education Services
We tailor our wide range of support to the individual needs of each child, family, and the professionals in their lives. Our activities focus on education, physical development, social skills, and family well-being – building confidence, connection & lifelong skills. Our education services include:
Early Development
6 months – 4 years
Early Development Groups are monthly sessions for pre-school children and their parents or carers. Through play, communication, and fun activities, children build confidence and early learning skills, while families gain practical support and connect with others.
School Outreach
4 – 16 years
Our School Outreach Service supports children with Down syndrome in mainstream and special schools, offering classroom observations, practical strategies, and resources for children and staff. The service promotes learning, communication, independence, and confidence, helping every child reach their potential.
Communication Groups
16 – 24 years
Our fortnightly communication groups help young people with Down syndrome aged 16–24 build confidence, independence, and practical skills for everyday life, while fostering friendships and a supportive social network.
Educational services
Early Development Groups
6 months to 4 years of age
Early Development Groups, led by Tracey from LETS Go!, are monthly in-person sessions for pre-school children and their parents/carers. Sessions focus on communication, play, positive behaviour, and the building blocks of learning. Through fun activities, children grow in confidence and enjoy learning in a safe, welcoming environment. These early skills give children the best possible start on their education journey, helping them feel ready for school and laying strong foundations for the future.
Parents and carers are fully involved. They gain practical ideas and support on how to continue learning at home contributing to improved play, communication, and stronger social skills. The groups also give families the chance to connect with each other, share experiences, and build a supportive community.
Practical Ideas That Work Everywhere
Strategies from the sessions can be used at home and in nursery or school, helping children make consistent progress..
“The Early Development Groups were amazing at forming Lilly’s early learning and we’ve taken the advice and practices into school with her.“
EDG parent
Tailored Learning and Personalised Advice
Guidance is tailored specifically for children with Down syndrome.
“Becky and Tracy provide therapy and advice tailored specifically to DS, which we don’t typically receive via the NHS.”
EDG parent
Helping Children Reach Developmental Milestones
Early support helps children achieve important milestones in communication, play, and learning.
“Jackson has been able to copy sounds, and some Makaton signs this year, which is a huge leap for him“
EDG parent
Educational services
School Outreach
4 to 16 years of age
Our school outreach teams visit both mainstream and special schools each term to support children with Down syndrome. The service is led by Dr Rebecca Baxter of LETS Go! (mainstream) and Vik Ralfs (special schools), who work closely with teachers, support staff, and families to promote inclusion and help every child succeed. Kim Lazarou, Kate Dale, Sam Wood, and Sarah Holton also make up the LETS Go! mainstream outreach team.
Visits include observing children in class, talking with staff and parents, and reviewing teaching approaches. The team then shares practical ideas and resources to support learning, communication, and positive behaviour. They also provide tools such as visual aids and accessible materials to help children build independence, social skills, and confidence.
Tools to Support Positive Behaviour in School
Schools are supported to develop inclusive practices that nurture positive behaviour, strengthen classroom relationships, and create welcoming environments where children with Down syndrome can learn and thrive alongside their peers.
“It’s an invaluable service that helps the school be more confident in managing behaviour.”
Parent
Friendships and Belonging at School
Schools are provided with advice on how to create opportunities for friendships, participation, and belonging, so children enjoy richer social experiences alongside their peers.
“I’ve learned just how important the social experiences gained in schools are for our pupils with Down syndrome.”
Primary School Teacher
Practical Tools for Academic Success
Schools are equipped with targeted resources and interventions that support individual learning styles, boost academic progress, and build children’s confidence in the classroom.
“The outreach team provided different tools to help Ace achieve his academic goals”
Parent
Educational services
Communication Groups
16 to 24 years of age
Delivered by LETS Go!, our fortnightly sessions empower young people aged 16 to 24 with Down syndrome by developing practical communication skills for everyday situations. The groups provide a supportive space to practice speaking, listening, and self-advocacy, helping participants build confidence and independence as they navigate adult life.
Through role-play, discussions, and social activities, participants learn to handle real-world situations and make choices for themselves. The sessions also foster friendships and social networks, giving young people a sense of belonging, reducing isolation, and promoting emotional well-being.
Building Conversation Skills
Sessions encourage curiosity and reciprocal communication skills in a supportive setting.
“Anya loves going to Comms Groups and seeing her friends. She’s learnt a lot about asking other people questions.”
Juana, Anya’s Mum
Expanding Vocabulary and Language Skills
Groups expand expressive language and practical communication abilities in a friendly environment.
“Zoe loves Comms Group and is always eager to attend. Her conversational skills and vocabulary have definitely improved.“
Lydia, Zoe’s Mum
Building Confidence
Groups build confidence while providing essential communication skills that support lifelong independence.
“Frankie loves attending The group is excellent – so helpful for communication, support, training and confidence.“
Sue, Frankie’s Mum
Our other services
Social Activities
Physical Activities
Wellbeing & Family Services
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Join our community and access expert-led support tailored to every stage of development.
Every step matters
Help us create brighter futures for children and young people with Down syndrome
Whether you’re here to learn, give, or grow — there’s a place for you at Stepping Stones DS.