Speech and Language Therapy

The Speech and Language Therapy Department aims to promote the development and use of effective systems of language and communication and ensure that those pupils with eating and drinking difficulties are managed appropriately and safely.

The Speech and Language Therapist is responsible for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of pupils with communication and/or eating and drinking difficulties. Assessment is carried out within an interdisciplinary and co-ordinated team approach to provide a joint overall management and intervention plan.

The Speech and Language Therapist introduces and encourages the use of alternative and augmentative communication systems including: manual signs e.g. Makaton signs; symbols e.g. Picture Communication Symbols (Mayer Johnson) and assistive technological systems.

Treatment intervention may be in the form of individual therapy sessions, joint interdisciplinary treatment sessions, group work or class based activities.

To promote effective communication and maximize eating and drinking abilities the Speech and Language Therapy Department provide regular training for parents, carers, education and support staff.