Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities
At Chase Terrace Academy, the Learning Support Team is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all pupils, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Our comprehensive approach ensures that every pupil has the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Lesson Support
The Learning Support Team collaborates closely with teachers to accommodate the diverse needs of SEND pupils. We engage with pupils, parents/carers, and staff to tailor classroom environments that foster safety and progress. Our approach prioritises facilitating independence, preparing pupils for life beyond school. Staff members in lessons implement strategies that empower pupils to succeed and develop crucial life skills.
We understand that children learn best when they are taught by subject experts. Our specialist academic teachers understand how to adapt their teaching approaches and resources for pupils with diverse learning profiles. Our staff are trained to use different teaching and learning strategies and to adapt their teaching and resources to cater to the needs of all pupils, making learning accessible to all. This adaptability ensures that all pupils, regardless of their learning differences, can engage with the curriculum effectively and achieve success.
The transition from primary school surpassed all expectations. Staff at CTA have gone above and beyond the call of duty. Communication between us and the Year Team has instilled much confidence in us as parents, which we have passed on to our children.’
The Management Team is made up of Mrs T Waters (SENCO) and Mrs R Hughes (Assistant SENCO), who lead a team of Teaching Assistants and Senior Teaching Assistants, some of whom work across a range of departments whilst others work more closely with core areas of the curriculum to develop a subject specialism that can be utilised to support pupils, particularly during their KS4 and KS5 courses.
Interventions
We offer a range of interventions designed to support the specific needs of SEND pupils. Understanding the value of classroom learning with subject experts, our intervention sessions are scheduled to complement regular classes. Key interventions include reading schemes, mathematics support and zones of regulation, which focuses on emotional regulation by helping pupils identify and manage their feelings effectively.
Our team works closely with external agencies such as speech and language therapists, CAHMS, the autism inclusion team, local authorities, and educational psychologists. This collaboration ensures we access professional advice and implement recommended strategies effectively.
Collaboration with primary school teams
To facilitate smooth transitions for SEND pupils, our team actively participates in transition visits to primary schools. We establish early dialogues with primary school teams and parents/carers to tailor transition plans. For pupils needing enhanced transition experiences, we offer gradual inductions and additional evening sessions for prospective parents/carers to visit the Learning Support Hub and understand the support available.
Where parents are concerned about a pupil’s progress, or wish to discuss a particular learning need we are happy to meet and discuss how best we can work together to meet those needs.
Appointments can be made via Mrs L Brown, the Learning Support Department’s Administrative Assistant.