The Learning Support Department is very proud of its friendly open-door policy, supporting all students across the school whether or not they have special educational needs.
The Learning Support Department team comprise three members of teaching staff, two of whom have a specialist postgraduate qualification in teaching students with dyslexia. We are also lucky to have enlisted the services of four highly experienced Teaching Assistants who ably support our Senior School students within the classroom.
We are able to offer small group academic support to students with learning difficulties, such as dyslexia. Classes take place within four purpose-built classrooms complete with computers and specialist resources.
Within the Senior School, students between Years 7-11 can attend Learning Support sessions in place of a language option. They will work on a range of topics including: study skills, learning styles, reading comprehension, punctuation, grammar, spelling, writing, numeracy skills, revision and examination technique. Emphasis is on providing a multisensory teaching style which lends itself to the specific needs of students with learning difficulties. We also make use of a computer based literacy programme to support reading and spelling skills, tailored to individual needs.
TA support is available in a number of lessons across the school for students with special educational needs.
The Department also hosts drop-in sessions for any Senior School student who may be interested, whether or not they have a learning difficulty. These sessions provide support for any student that requires a little help with their academic work, or simply need a sympathetic ear.
Please see below for access information regarding SEND provision at Ratcliffe College: