Speech and Language Information Poster
The NHS Speech and Language Therapy (SaLT) Team provides support to develop each child’s speech, language, and communication skills. Our support is integrated within the child’s daily routine.
The SaLT service is commissioned to provide a school-based service to support the development of communication skills thereby facilitating access to the curriculum. The service follows a model of delivery which recognises that communication occurs all the time in every situation. There is therefore a need for everyone working with, and spending time with children to be skilled in supporting children’s individual speech, language, and communication needs.
We work with teaching staff in the school to ensure that your child’s individualised targets are integrated into the school day. Support is delivered flexibly around the curriculum and school day therefore appointment letters are not routinely provided.
We offer specialist support for pupils if Speech and Language Therapy is identified in their Hertfordshire Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). When a child moves into Woolgrove from a mainstream school with SaLT hours on their Hertfordshire EHCP, we will assess their needs within the context of Woolgrove School and agree communication targets with the class teacher. If it is felt that the child’s communication needs can be met by the specialist schooling provision, their hours may be reduced or the child discharged.
Children may also be referred at other times if there is a new concern from parent/carer or class teacher.
The therapy we provide will depend on a child’s needs. We may work directly with some pupils if appropriate, either individually or in groups. We often support children in the classroom as research shows this is where most progress can be made. We also support staff to make adaptations to the language and visuals used in the classroom to ensure communication needs are supported in the best possible way, and to ensure communication goals are integrated into curriculum activities. We promote the use of Total Communication, i.e. using objects, pictures, symbols and key word signing to support each child’s communication skills.
We contribute to annual reviews by writing reports; these identify progress made over the past year and highlight new targets and general communication strategies to be used at home and at school.
We train school staff about communication through training sessions based in school. We are also available to provide informal advice should there be general queries about communication.
We work closely with teaching staff and with any other professionals involved with the child, including independent Speech and Language Therapists. We actively encourage parents and carers to be involved in each child’s therapy journey. Parents, carers and other professionals are encouraged to contact us at any time through the school’s main office or the SaLT admin telephone number (01923 470680 Option 3)
You can find more information on our website.
Speech and Language Therapists
Jo Wardle –Thurs and alternating Wed/Fri
Olivia Segall – Thurs
Speech and Language Assistant
Nicola Robinson – Wed and Thurs