Curriculum-area overview
The learning support department is not a subject area in itself but a department that provides support across all curriculum areas where there is an identified need. The department does however implement its own packages to support curriculum learning. For instance, if a pupil experiences significant problems with literacy or numeracy then they will be screened to identify whether or not they need to undertake a programme of wave 3 phonics intervention, reading recovery or maths recovery. Where there is an identified need for a wave 3 support package, TAs will withdraw such pupils and teach them in a small group or individually. Three TAs in the department were recently awarded HLTA status and as a result have been attached to the core curriculum areas of English, Maths and Science. This will further improve the quality of support pupils receive in these subjects.
A differentiated curriculum must be available for pupils with SEN. This is evident in the case of the ‘Literacy Intervention Group’. This provision allows those pupils who experience significant difficulties with literacy to work together on their functional literacy skills in a smaller group across a greater number of lessons with intensive support in a dyslexia friendly environment. The department is also involved in supporting vulnerable pupils who require personalised timetables.
The HLTA team leader has successfully implemented the ‘paired reading programme’ on an annual basis for a number of years with positive outcomes. This is for pupils in years 7 and 8 who have a reading age that is significantly lower than their chronological age. Pupils are screened, identified and supported during registration by trained year 11 student leaders.
Related Documents
