Learning Support Faculty

We provide an holistic approach to SEN intervention. In conjunction with outside agencies, and in-house expertise, we cater for the majority of Special Educational Needs within the school.

The faculty has recently undergone redevelopment, and now not only utilises traditional comprehension and phonics programmes, but is also catering for more specific literacy and numeracy needs through the use of the latest ICT software.

ICT packages including Wordshark and Numbershark are the latest additions to the schools intervention strategies – assisting progression with pupils who may have Dyslexia, Dyscalculia – or general literacy and numeracy issues.

Pupils receive targeted intervention, tailored to their specific educational and emotional needs. In addition to this, pupils with the most severe needs – also receive support within lessons from our Learning Support Assistants.

Access Arrangements and Exam Concessions for GCSE

Pupils begin to be assessed for Access Arrangements at the end of Year 9 for their forthcoming GCSEs. Arrangements might include extra time or access to a reader, for example. Pupils are primarily identified through discussion with teaching staff, school data or relevant SEN status. Please do be aware that a Dyslexia diagnosis does not guarantee an Access Arrangement! Exam Boards regulate these arrangements and there are strict criteria which must be met and assessed for. These assessments are carried out by Mrs Fawcitt, who is qualified in this area.

Should you require any further information regarding SEN, or have a child at Westgate you may have concerns about, please contact Ms R. Lewis (SENCO).

Useful Links

http://www.dyslexiaaction.org.uk/