Communicative Support

Communication and social interaction are at the heart of the work of Ganton School. An inability to communicate or interact with other children or adults is the biggest barrier to learning that the majority of our pupils face and therefore is a priority when planning teaching and learning outcomes for individuals.

At Ganton, we want all children to be able to communicate in an appropriate way with as broad an audience as possible in order for them to have access to a wide range of life opportunities and to participate and contribute as fully as they can. Our aims are:

  • To help children develop spontaneous and functional communication skills
  • To help children develop good relationships with others and to develop social communication skills
  • To help children maintain a well-regulated emotional state for learning and interacting
  • To help children maximise their opportunities to take part in daily life.

Thorough assessment of a child’s functional communication enables staff to target priority goals in social communication and emotional regulation through the implementation of appropriate transactional strategies and supports.

When programming supports a child’s needs in such a way there is a great potential for positive effects on a child’s development. Alternative strategies may include the use of signs or symbols, formal PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) or Intensive Interaction.

The Communication Team operates across the school offering a more bespoke programme for those pupils operating at the lowest developmental levels, supporting the class staff teams in making their lessons accessible for this group, enabling engagement and offering opportunities for personalised additional support. This team works in conjunction with the Speech and Language Therapy team and pupil’s families.

The strategies used to promote communication are:

  • Intensive Interaction
  • Body Signs
  • Visuals (visual timetables, timers, choosing boards etc)
  • Core Boards
  • Objects Of Reference (OOR)
  • Sensory Cues
  • Signing (Makaton)
  • AAC devices (e.g. Switches, PECs, LAMP)
  • Communicate InPrint

As a school we value:

  • The happiness of children, families and staff;

  • Caring staff who respect and know the children very well;

  •  The development of self-confidence, self-motivation and independence;

‘Leaders use the pupil premium funding effectively.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Based on the evidence gathered during this short inspection, I am of the opinion that the school continues to go from strength to strength.’…

OFSTED comments

‘The curriculum offers a wealth of enrichment activities which are highly valued by
pupils and parents and carers.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils rise to the challenges that you set, and their learning is rarely disrupted.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils run the school shop and staff cafeteria, enabling them to use their literacy and numeracy skills in a practical setting.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils respect each other, display good manners and work together successfully.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupil Premium is targeted to improving pupils’ communication skills through investment in specialist equipment and software.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Leaders have carried out a detailed review of the curriculum pathways for pupils.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils say that they enjoy their lessons and take great pride in their work.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils, including disadvantaged pupils, are making strong progress from their varied starting points in reading, writing and mathematics.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils spoke
enthusiastically about learning outside of school and their visits to local museums, the Humber Bridge, local cafes and to the cinema.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Leaders have continued to develop the school’s curriculum since the last inspection.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Leaders have introduced a new approach to assessment. This enables leaders to check pupils’ progress from their starting points more effectively.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils take part in a strong work experience and work-related learning programme.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Staff use signing, symbols, photographs and objects of reference to communicate effectively with those pupils who need additional support to ensure that they are fully engaged in their learning.’…

OFSTED comments

‘The school council is
especially active and members are particularly proud of the role they played in improving school meals..’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils take part in local and
regional accessible sporting activities.’…

OFSTED comments

‘There is a strong emphasis on personalisation of the curriculum, the development of pupils’ communication skills, independence skills and preparation for life after school.’…

OFSTED comments