At Clifton High School, we recognise that every pupil learns differently and brings their own unique strengths to our community.
Using a graduated approach of high-quality universal teaching, targeted interventions and personalised support, we empower pupils with additional learning needs to access the curriculum, develop confidence and independence, and thrive both academically and personally.
- Mrs Hannah Frost, Head of Enhanced Learning (SENCO)
ENHANCED LEARNING
Our Enhanced Learning Department (ELD) provides support across the School, both within the classroom and beyond, to ensure that all pupils can engage confidently in their learning, participate fully in School life, and achieve their individual brilliance.
The ELD is led by the Head of Enhanced Learning (SENDCo) and comprises a team of specialist teachers and Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) including a Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) Lead, specialist teachers of Dyslexia and Dyscalculia, and a dedicated coordinator and tutor for English as an Additional Language (EAL). The team works collaboratively to provide effective, inclusive support across the School.
Additional Learning Needs
The ELD department works in partnership with staff, families and external agencies to provide:
- Cohesive and inclusive support of pupils with additional needs, whether identified through formal diagnosis or through emerging needs recognised in School:
- A graduated approach, working collaboratively with pupils, families, teaching staff and external professionals.
- Guidance and support for teachers in delivering high-quality adaptive teaching and inclusive classroom practice.
- Targeted interventions and personalised support to help pupils overcome barriers to learning and develop independence.
- Specialist teaching and support for pupils with specific learning difficulties, including dyslexia, dyscalculia and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.
We can provide enhanced transition arrangements for pupils with additional needs, helping them to build confidence, become familiar with their new environment, and feel a strong sense of belonging whenever they begin their journey with Clifton High School.
Examination Access Arrangements
In Year 9, pupils who are part of our ELD programme are screened for examination access arrangements in accordance with the regulations of the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ). This process helps identify and put in place any reasonable adjustments that may support pupils during public examinations.
ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE (EAL)
There are some pupils in Clifton High School for whom English is not their first language. We value this linguistic and cultural diversity and encourage opportunities for children to use and talk about their home language in play and learning.
For those pupils who join Clifton High School requiring help with their English language skills, the English as an Additional Language (EAL) team offers their guidance. After an initial assessment, pupils may be invited to benefit from weekly or twice-weekly EAL lessons with a specialist EAL teacher. The EAL Team will continue to support the pupil through individual or small-group lessons and regularly monitor the development of their English language skills.
The content of EAL lessons is adapted to best fit the individual needs of each pupil, but typically includes a good balance of speaking, writing, listening and reading practice and linked curriculum content as appropriate.
