The Learning Support Department aims to help all pupils become effective and efficient learners, whether they have recognised specific learning needs or just need some advice on some aspect of their learning. We have fully qualified specialist staff who can provide advice and teach strategies to enable pupils to reach their full potential within the school. Support is therefore provided at different levels dependent on need.

At Key Stage Three some pupils will receive specialist 1:1 support each week. Others will work in small groups with a specialist teacher. Work focuses on literacy and numeracy skills as well as revision and organisation skills. Each pupil is given an Individual Education Plan which targets the skills they particularly need to work on to access the curriculum effectively. Some pupils will have occasional lessons to learn a particular study skill to support their learning.

Support continues to be provided for pupils during their GCSE courses and where possible, skills and strategies are taught and consolidated through the medium of their subject studies. This helps pupils become more successful independent learners.

In the Sixth Form specialist teachers work with A Level students helping them to facilitate their learning, exploring and evaluating different approaches to ensure they maximise their learning strengths and compensate for any learning weaknesses.

All teaching and learning employs a multi-sensory approach and uses techniques that are designed to empower the pupils to meet and overcome any learning challenges they face.

Alongside the teaching programme the Department carries out diagnostic assessments to inform teaching and learning. The Department is also responsible for organising any Exam Access Arrangements required for pupils.