Learning Support

How we define SEND

The Code of Practice 2015 says:
“A child or young person has SEN if they have a learning difficulty or disability which calls for special educational provision to be made for him or her.

A child of compulsory school age or a young person has a learning difficulty or disability if he or she:

• has a significantly greater difficulty in learning than the majority of others of the same age, or
• has a disability which prevents or hinders him or her from making use of facilities of a kind generally provided for others of the same age in mainstream schools or mainstream post-16 institutions.”

Miss Towler is the SENCO at St. Crispin’s School.

We have:

• A dedicated small group teaching area
• An independent study skills area
• Supervised break and lunch time activities for those who need extra support
• Laptops
• A comprehensive intervention programme for Years 7 to 11
• Many support groups for vulnerable students
• Learning mentors
• Coursework and subject support for Year 10 and 11 students
• Lots of understanding and expertise.

St. Crispin’s is committed to a policy of inclusion. The teaching, learning, achievements, attitudes and wellbeing of all students matter.  We aim to identify and overcome barriers to learning and to make sure the needs of all the students are met.  At St. Crispin’s we believe that  all  young  people,  regardless of ability, behaviour and need, are valued equally.

The Learning Support Department will put in the support needed to ensure that all students have access to a broad and balanced curriculum and support teaching staff to differentiate their lessons to meet their individual needs.

Special  Educational  Needs  Policy if a printed copy of this policy is required a copy can be provided by  the  school  office. Prospective parents are welcome to discuss matters of particular concern with a senior member of staff or the SENCO and tours of the school are available on request.

The department is well staffed with a full time Head of Learning Support, a part time literacy/study skills teacher and highly skilled Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) and HLTAs, who support students in their lessons and act as learning mentors on a 1:1 basis.

We offer a comprehensive range of support. Identified students are withdrawn from classes for small group support; others are supported within the classroom. We match the needs of the students to the support we give. A Classroom Support Plan is put in place for all students who are receiving extra help. Access arrangements are applied for in time for the GCSE exams to replicate a pupil’s normal way of working.

We work closely with the Heads of Years, teaching staff and parents to identify students who need our support. Students are encouraged to participate in the decision making process in relation to their education and their views are sought and taken into account.

To view the SEN Information Report – please click here

For any queries please contact the school office on 01189 781144.

Complaints regarding SEN

The school website offers and encourages feedback from parents/carers and they are always encouraged to contact staff directly.

In the case of SEN, please contact the SENCO (sen@crispins.co.uk)

If your complaint is not successfully resolved, please refer to the Complaints Policy