If a pupil has an identified learning difficulty upon entering RBAI, the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo) will liaise with the pupil, parents and, as required, external agencies, to determine the most effective package of support. Teachers will also be advised as to the strategies which can be put in place at the classroom level to meet the pupil’s individual needs. The same approach applies to a pupil who begins to present with a learning difficulty during their time at the School. We greatly value the input and support of parents and carers, as a partnership approach is so important in helping to promote a pupil’s academic progress and well-being.
Statemented pupils may also be entitled to support provided by a classroom assistant. We have a very well-qualified team of classroom assistants who play an invaluable role in supporting inclusion. Alongside their academic qualifications, they exude the personal qualities and dispositions which help to promote the achievement of each pupil. We also provide training, support and information to the wider staff body with regards to how they can differentiate and develop the educational experiences of the pupils they work with or teach.
The Department is very well resourced and comprises a SENCo, Assistant SENCo and a team of classroom assistants. We are housed in a dedicated space referred to as the Pastoral Hub which includes offices, tutorial rooms and interview rooms.
The SENCo and Assistant SENCo are also Specialist Assessors which means that we can assess (in line with JCQ regulations) whether a pupil is entitled to access arrangements for public examinations. These access arrangements include; extra time, prompting, a reader, the provision of a scribe, and the use of assistive technology.
