Learning Support

The Learning Support unit is a bright, welcoming suite of four rooms providing support for children from the whole school with specific learning difficulties (such as dyslexia), or those who are identified as having some difficulty with aspects of literacy or numeracy. New and trialling children are all screened for dyslexia using a computerised programme. All pupils are screened again at the end of Years 2 and 6.

Our rooms all have computers (some with internet access), which are used for reinforcement of spellings etc. and motivation.

All learning support staff are experienced specialist teachers who hold additional qualifications for teaching pupils with specific learning difficulties.

Children are generally taught on a 1:1 basis for one or two sessions per week, usually in the unit, but sometimes in the classroom if requested by subject teachers. Pupils work on an individual programme of work, tailored to their specific needs, but also covering any difficult topics encountered in lessons. We also teach exam/study skills based on individual learning styles and Brain Gym®; the latter is designed to improve co-ordination and learning and the children love it. Pupils have an Individual Education Plan which is reviewed and updated on a regular basis. If reasonably possible, lessons are timetabled so that the child does not always miss the same lesson every week. Some lessons run before school or during lunch breaks.

There is close liaison between Learning Support teachers, parents and all school staff, as well as with educational psychologists and other professional services that may be working with our pupils. Parents are welcome to drop in at any time to discuss with us any immediate concerns. Progress reports are sent home twice per term and a parents' meeting is held once a term.

We are proud to watch our pupils gaining in confidence and performance as progress through the school and move on successfully to the next level.