LC Blog – 3.2.23

This year at the Learning Centre, one of our key areas of further development is around ‘Total communications’. This incorporates all areas of supporting students to effectively communicate their thoughts, feelings and wishes, and in turn be as independent as possible. This is a large, and vital piece of work in helping students reach their highlighted destinations.

We are working in partnership with Our Speech and Language team and Ace Technology. Mr Newport, our IB Lead is leading around Augmented assistive Technology, here’s a short report:

“As part of ongoing work at the learning centre, a number of different students have been using ‘assistive technology – different methods to access ICT.

This includes using different apps, special mice, switches etc.

This helps pupils to access computers in ways adapted to their mobility etc.

The students have had a great time with this and have made really good progress, and we have been able to find the most suitable pieces of equipment for individuals.

Some pupils have been accessing the IT together, allowing them to play multiplayer games and encouraging the development of social skills.

Others have worked on typing, in order to help them express themselves.

Others have been simply accessing gaming, allowing them to develop their independence and leisure skills!

We have also been using virtual reality in our class, which was amazing!

All the best,
Dr. Stephen Newport.”

I would like to thank our families for their ongoing support, especially this week with the disruptions caused by industrial action. We balance our support for colleagues’ right to strike with our desire to remain open for as many students as it is safe to do so.

Next week we will be taking part in ‘Children’s Mental Health Week’ and I look forward to sharing updates throuout the week.

Have a great weekend

Take care

Dawn