Therapeutic Support

Our approach

Our approach is that we will provide whatever therapy is required, in accordance with the Therapists’ professional Codes of Conduct, to reduce identified barriers to learning. Not all of our pupils will need therapy programmes, but our experience is that most children with complex needs make better learning progress if their therapeutic needs are properly understood and addressed.

The Therapies we provide

The therapies we normally provide are Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Psychotherapy (such as Art or Music Therapy). Working with animals can also be very therapeutic, and we provide opportunities for this where approriate.

Integrating therapy into the individual's curriculum

All Therapy programmes will be integrated into each child’s curriculum, and our staff teams will support this by incorporating therapy exercises or routines into pupils’ daily programmes, in accordance with the professional therapist’s guidance. The relevant therapists will provide written reports for each child’s Annual Review, and will attend the Review if appropriate.

How we allocate Therapy programmes

Therapy is allocated according to the needs stated in each child’s EHCP; subject to the professional assessment by the Therapist concerned. In practice, many EHCPs do not include any therapy requirements, even though it would be highly beneficial to the child. In these circumstances we will provide the therapy anyway, always in accordance with the relevant professional Code of Conduct. All therapy costs are provided for within the core fees for a place at the school, so there is no requirement for any therapy fees authorisation process.

Liaison with Parents / Carers, and with CAMHS

We will liaise closely with the Parent / Carer / Therapists regarding any therapy programme, and where the Therapist deems it appropriate, the Parent / Carer may also be involved in the therapy sessions. We will also liaise with CAMHS as required, and as appropriate.

"Leaders work closely with specialists, including speech and language and occupational therapists, producing individualised integrated therapy programmes that complement pupils' EHCP targets."