(Learning Difficulties and Disabilities)
`Our whole philosophy is built around flexibility of support and doing our utmost to create the best environment and facilities for students to be happy and successful. If it's possible - we'll try it and if it seems impossible we will look for a way to try to make it happen'.
Many pupils arrive at secondary school still experiencing difficulties in accessing the curriculum. It is estimated that one pupil in five, experiences some degree of difficulty, at some time during their school career.
Our College has a well-established Learning Support Faculty with over 50 experienced staff specially trained to meet the varied and changing needs of pupils at all key stages including 6th Form.
Considerable thought is given by all teaching staff to the specific needs of pupils in all subjects. The help given can range from individual or small group withdrawal for pupils with specific difficulties, on the one hand, to in class support for pupils within their mainstream lessons on the other. There is close liaison with feeder primary schools so that all youngsters already experiencing difficulties are given support as soon as possible. Similarly, we are aware of the needs of more able pupils and are able to alert members of staff in a similar way.
The Learning Support Faculty is very well equipped with a range of computers, both free standing and networked. These are used extensively to support youngsters in their production of written materials, illustrated work, teaching programmes and exercises. We provide laptop word processors which are successfully used both in the classroom or can be booked out for use at home. These help with motivation, presentation of written work, note taking, spell checks, and in the production of homework and coursework. Their portability allows use in high literacy cross curricular activities.
Youngsters experience difficulty in completing homework are also encouraged to seek help at the `homework clubs', which take place during the lunch times and after school, run by members of the Faculty. A vocational Work Related Learning option is also available in Years 10 and 11 for identified pupils who would benefit from a more practical, less examination based curriculum, alongside many variations of individual alternative timetabled provision.
We are proud of the comment recorded in the Ofsted report, October 2006
“There is an outstanding provision for pupils with learning difficulties and disabilities. Successful initiatives such as the low achievers' project in Year 7 ensure pupils achieve well for their ability and develop a positive attitude to school.
Pupils with learning difficulties and disabilities make good progress because of the well organised and enthusiastic support they receive. Effective links with parents, carers and support agencies ensure pupils' needs are well understood and action plans are carefully constructed.”
