Supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
At Christ Church Cathedral School we believe that it is really important for all our pupils to be able to be happy, make progress and feel valued, whatever their strengths and difficulties. Of course, as a gently selective school, we do not have children with very significant Special Educational Needs. However, we have plenty who need a little more support than others do, and we are proud that we can give them the attention they need – probably more than in other schools which have a wider range of needs.
For many pupils who might struggle in other schools, the very nature of CCCS gives them what they need without much further intervention. Our small class sizes, and ability sets from Form 5, guarantee plenty of individual attention for academic needs. Our teachers know the pupils really well and can support them with their emotions and relationships. Some pupils really benefit from the routine of our School, including learning in different places and from different adults across the day: regular changes and clear routines can help them to keep their concentration going.
We also have the advantage that at CCCS, talents of all kinds are celebrated. A pupil who finds reading difficult may be a star sportsman, and another who struggles with Maths may be a cathedral soloist or the star of the school play. This is in contrast with some other schools in which the core subjects have most of the attention.
Of course, there are pupils who still need more support. That is where I come in as SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator). I work with parents and staff to identify what support individuals need and make sure it happens. This might be arranging for external assessments, ensuring a quiet space or extra time for exams, or timetabling 1:1 or small-group support. I help teachers to share their expertise, so that we all support each child in the best way we can. We are very lucky to have a team of talented support staff who are available to provide support. For pupils who are struggling with their emotions or relationships, time with Mrs Wellesley, the School Counsellor, or with Ms Hajar can make all the difference. We have staff throughout the School, including our class teaching assistants, Mrs Roope, Mme Williams, Ms Hajar and Mrs Leeson, who can offer that little bit extra to help pupils keep up with their learning.
If you are worried about how well your child is progressing, please do get in touch.
Mrs Anna Fairhurst
Deputy Head - Academic
