Support for Learning

Introduction

Many pupils, at some time in their school career, require short-term or long-term support in order to overcome learning barriers and reach their full potential. Our Support for Learning Staff at Whitburn Academy consists of a group of dedicated professionals, committed to meeting pupils' individual needs.

We have 2 qualified, experienced teachers who work closely with heads of house, pupil support workers and class teachers to provide a "whole school approach" to learning support. We have extensive experience in working effectively with pupils with a wide range of additional needs, including: dyslexia, autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), hearing and visual impairment and behavioural, emotional or social difficulties.

Identification of Pupils Requiring Support

Effective identification and assessment of the additional support needs of pupils are essential for making good provision for those needs. The school has a clear referral system whereby any member of staff may refer a pupil. When a pupil is referred, an assessment will be undertaken by the learning support staff. We also operate an open door policy so parents or pupils can come to talk to us about concerns at any time.

Most pupils are identified prior to admission through primary/secondary liaison during the summer term. This allows information to be provided to class teachers before they meet the pupils.

Intervention Strategies for Pupils with Additional Support Needs

The Support for Learning Team employs many strategies to enhance the education of pupils with additional needs. Targeted support includes:

• Paired reading programme
• Buddying programme
• Nurture groups
• Small group teaching/learning
• One-to-one teaching/learning
• In-class support
• Social skills group work
• Break- and lunchtime clubs
• Homework club
• Differentiated timetables
• Alternative assessment arrangements
• Support for coursework and private study
• Counselling

Individualised Educational Programme

Some pupils with additional support needs will have an individualised educational programme (IEP).  An IEP is a detailed plan for a pupil's learning. It describes a young person's additional support needs and the type of support they require. The plan sets out short-term aims and goals and the methods that will be used to help to reach them. It is regularly reviewed by learning support staff, heads of house, class teachers, pupils and parents/ carers.

Partnership with Other Agencies

We value the input of our stakeholders who include pupils, parents/carers and other outside agencies:

• Educational Psychology Service
• Boghall Literacy Service
• West Lothian Hearing Impaired Service
• ADHD Outreach
• Autism Outreach
• Burnhouse Outreach
• West Lothian College

Find a list of the Teaching and Support Staff for Learning Support.