Special Educational Needs

SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability)

At Claremont we aim to ensure that all pupils are able to develop their full potential and achieve, whilst at the same time enjoying school and participating in the full life of the school.

The Learning Support Department is a caring and professional team that works with classroom teachers, outside agencies, parents and carers to deliver and monitor the most effective provision for learners to help them make expected progress.

Please click here to see our SEND Policy

Learning Support Team

Andy Page – Senco (PGCE, PGC Senco Accreditation)

Treasa Davidson – SEN Teacher (PGCE)

Teaching Assistants

Sumi Shah Senior TA

Lorraine Cameron Visual Impairment Specialist TA

Denise Rice

Arti Bhati

Bina Patel

Carina Birch

Provision starts with classroom teachers having a good understanding of SEND, so staff in the school receive ongoing training in key areas and receive more detailed information about how to help individual pupils with more complex needs.

A team of teaching assistants provide classroom support - but they are specially trained to work in a way that encourages students' confidence and independence. They sometimes work outside the classroom with groups, modify or adapt classroom work, support pupils to develop organizational skills and assist on trips.

Reading difficulties are a significant barrier to learning so in Year 7 pupils with weak reading skills may receive individual or small group tuition from a literacy teacher, or participate in the successful paired reading programme. A small number of students will continue to receive individual or small group support in later years. Other interventions are arranged by the department according to need.

The department runs a popular lunchtime club with board games and books - this is in a relaxed area and a haven for some students. Any pupil in the school is able to attend the club and it can provide opportunities for friendships to develop.

The department also provides a homework club four days a week and this is open to any pupil in the school.