At Rupert House we believe that all children have a right to a broad and balanced curriculum. We also recognise that any child may have a special educational need at any time in their school career. They may have a learning difficulty or their needs may be physical, emotional, behavioural or medical. There will also be children for whom the curriculum is not sufficiently demanding and who will need special provision to enable them to develop at a faster rate than other children of the same age.

We believe that the needs of all children should be met and that this will be achieved by raising the self-esteem and expectations of all the pupils in the school, as well as catering for the specific needs of children as they arise.

The teachers at Rupert House work closely together to ensure that all the children have a positive and exciting learning experience throughout their time at school. If any child is experiencing difficulties, the Learning Support Team will give help, support and advice in the short term, or over a longer period. We view learning support as a means of helping children with the things which they are finding difficult at the time, and also as a springboard, to help them to work with their peers within class lessons.

The Learning Support Team is committed to providing a learning environment which acknowledges that children do not all learn in the same way and at the same pace. We encourage children to take control of their own learning, understand their own learning style, express their concerns and be aware of their own needs. We give praise if the children are able to develop strategies to help themselves and we view mistakes as an opportunity to learn and improve.

Whenever possible, children with Special Educational Needs will experience the full range of activities and lessons within the school. To achieve this goal, specialist equipment may be required, or activities may be differentiated. Classroom support from the SENCo or an assistant may also be necessary. Children may be withdrawn from the class to work one-to-one or in a small group with one of the SEN team. Care is taken to minimise disruption to the curriculum. A Buddy Reading scheme is in place. Early Birds is a club to focus on co-ordination, fine or gross motor skills and concentration. All staff are aware of the benefits of Brain Gym.

There is a designated room (The Busy Bee Room), with a large range of resources, for learning support lessons. It is a place where the children can learn in a warm and supportive environment. It is well stocked with games and activities which the children can use to learn basic skills in a fun way.

We acknowledge that parents know their children better than anyone and, at every stage, parents are encouraged to become involved with their child’s learning. The SENCo is available to discuss problems and triumphs at all Parents’ Evenings but parents are invited to express their concerns at any other time.