Learning Support

Department Overview

The Learning Support Department can be divided into two main sections: Junior and Senior School, both of which are overseen by Mrs S Chapman. In both the Junior and the Senior school pupils are supported in a variety of ways; Learning Support assistants may work alongside pupils in class, pupils are sometimes withdrawn in small groups and there is also opportunity for some individual work. For some Senior School pupils there is the option of attending Learning Support four times a week, instead of pursuing a modern language; this invaluable time can ensure that pupils are given the support and opportunity to improve their literacy skills and strengthen their performance across other subject areas. Individual Education Plans (IEPs) are overseen by the Learning Support Department and are produced twice a year, enabling pupils, parents and staff to build on progress made and celebrate pupils’ successes. New, achievable targets are then set to ensure future progress is consistently assured. The Department strongly believes in the teaching of study skills, revision and examination technique. This facility is open to all members of the school, not solely those pupils receiving specific literacy support.

Facilities

The Junior School is fortunate to have the widely acknowledged integrated learning system known as ‘SuccessMaker’ within each classroom; this uses multi-sensory teaching methods to promote over-learning of reading, spelling and mathematics. The Learning Support room in the Junior school is also the base for small-group or individual work. In the Senior School students attending Learning Support make regular use of a variety of resources to support and improve their literacy skills. Mind-mapping software such as Inspiration and Mind Manager is also available to aid pupils in their planning and organisation of assignments.

In the Classroom

The Learning Support Department provides small group work with a maximum staff to student ratio of 1:5. Sessions focus on developing literacy and study skills in the support of all curriculum areas. Pupils are actively encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and to develop successful learning strategies.

Forms 1-3

In Forms 1-3 the focus of Learning Support lessons is on improving basic literacy skills which includes spelling, reading accuracy and speed, reading comprehension and written language. Pupils are also encouraged to consider their learning style; Visual, Auditory and Kinaesthetic methods/styles of learning are actively encouraged and employed throughout the school.

Forms 4-5

In Forms 4-5 the pressure of coursework and external examinations begins to build; Learning Support seeks to support the pupils through this period, giving them advice and practical guidance in a variety of areas such as: time management, study skills, essay planning and writing, reading skills, examination technique and revision.

6th Form

In the 6th Form, students arrange and receive Learning Support on an individualised basis; topics covered varying according to the individual but may include any of the following: over-learning of key information, revision strategies, essay planning and technique and examination technique.

Beyond the Classroom

Further to timetabled sessions, the Learning Support room is open to any pupil requiring support with their academic study or advice regarding study skills, revision strategies, examination technique or even coursework. Learning Support teachers are also an important point of contact for any member of staff with concerns regarding a pupil’s learning or general progress. The Learning Support Department is also responsible for training staff in Dyslexic-Friendly Teaching Methods; teachers and support staff receive regular advice and guidance in how to recognise and assist pupils experiencing learning difficulties; pupils’ IEPs form the basis of this monitoring of progress.