The LDD Support Department (Learners with Difficulties and/ or Disabilities)

Aims of the Department

The LDD department promotes a whole school approach to meet the range of students special educational needs. Our teaching staff are supported by a team of experienced LSAs who work together to deliver a broad and balanced curriculum through a range of different teaching strategies and learning styles. We believe that all children, regardless of ability or behaviour are valued equally. Pupils with special needs are fully integrated into the school and given extra help as appropriate.

General

As well as meeting our statutory requirements of chairing Annual Review meetings and setting and reviewing Individual Education plans, the department provides in class support and also small group withdrawal. We have two well resourced rooms where the pupils can receive additional learning support.

KS3 Curriculum

All pupils at KS3 follow the National Curriculum. The LDD department assesses each pupil and creates a personal plan of support based on individual needs. Support could include working with an LSA in the classroom; working in a small group with an LSA or LST in or out of the classroom; one to one sessions for academic, social or emotional support; anger manager or social skills workshops; referrals to external agencies. . All support has objectives which are reviewed regularly and the pupils’ progress is tracked and monitored.

KS 4 Curriculum

At KS4, all pupils who have an identified educational need have a personalised timetable. The same provisions offered at KS3 are also offered at KS4. In addition, some boys are offered places on vocational programmes at local colleges such as Art and Design, Mechanics and carpentry. Some boys are also offered support as an option choice, where they can study booster literacy and numeracy and/or receive support for coursework and assignments. Boys with educational needs are also offered the opportunity to study for the British Safety Council Health and Safety Entry Level Award which is a recognised qualification.

Opportunities at KS5

Support continues into Years 12 and 13 and we have an LSA who works specifically with 6th form boys. This year we have been piloting the Certificate of Personal Effectiveness which is awarded by Asdan. The course can be studied at 3 levels with Level 2 being equivalent to a GCSE grade B and Level 3 being equivalent to an AS level grade A. The qualifications are recognised by Universities and FE colleges.