Learning Support

Who are we?

Our department comprises of 3 teaching staff and 19 teaching assistants. We work closely together to ensure that students with learning and emotional difficulties are supported appropriately. We endeavour to make their time in school as rewarding as possible, doing all we can to enable them to achieve their potential in all areas of the curriculum and supporting access to the wider opportunities which school life offers.

So what do we do?

Our work is diverse and very much dependant on the needs of the individual student.  We give support in the classroom in all curriculum areas and also work with small groups and individuals when necessary.

We work with students in all age groups, in some cases from before they start at TGS in Year 7, through to going on to college/employment in Year 11 or to University at the end of Year 13.

Students in Year 9 are assessed to see if any access arrangements need to be put in place for their external exams (GCSE’s). These arrangements, which might include having a reader, extra time, use of a word processor, an amanuensis (scribe), transcript, visual aids etc., are considered and put in place if necessary for future exams.

Additional to the curriculum we run a paired reading scheme in which staff and 6^th formers share books with students each morning during registration.

Our department is open at break and lunchtime to offer social support and to help build relationships between students through involvement in games and activities run by staff. We also encourage students to use this time as an opportunity to get advice and assistance with homework.

Teaching assistants also escort students on trips and residentials in order to allow them to participate fully in school life. Students in year 11 are often accompanied to college or employment interviews.

Meetings are regularly held with parents, Bradford Learning Support Services and outside agencies to ensure that the needs of students are fully met.

We encourage parental involvement and anyone with any concerns should feel free to contact us.