Learning Support

When the title "Learning Support" is used in schools it is usual to think of pupils who have Special Educational Needs (SEN). Independent schools, however, are in an unusual position. Our pupils have met rigorous criteria to gain entry to the school and cannot be said to have a "significantly greater difficulty in learning" than the majority of children of the same age, which is the conventional definition of SEN. However, some pupils may have a slight difficulty or relative weakness in one aspect of their learning when compared to their peers in the school, for example an able pupil with dyslexia or dyspraxia. These pupils could be said to have "additional learning needs" and the school strives to support these pupils. They are encouraged to play to their strengths and at the same time make improvements in their area of weakness so that they can access the curriculum more easily, keep up with the pace of lessons and thus fulfil their potential.

Some of our pupils have a disability which prevents or hinders them from making use of educational facilities provided for children of the same age in the school and have a Statement of Special Educational Needs. These pupils generally have a sensory impairment – visual or hearing impairment - and they have specialist help to enable them to access the curriculum.

Miss Vicky Barrett, Director of Studies, is the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator. Mrs Dawn Meers is the Learning Support Teacher for literacy and organisational skills. Mrs Joanne Farmer is the Learning Support Teacher for pupils with numeracy and maths difficulties. Mrs Debbie Flint, a specialist support assistant, supports a student with a visual impairment. The school welcomes many visiting teaching colleagues from outside agencies, such as Stockport's Educational Service for Sensory Impairment and Manchester's Children's Services, who come into school to support specific pupils.

The Headmaster and Governors are committed to supporting the learning, attainment and personal development of all pupils at the school including those with additional learning needs.