Learning/Curriculum Support

At the Cathedral School we promote an atmosphere of encouragement, acceptance and respect for achievements in which all pupils can thrive.

Learning Support is a fully integrated part of the school, ensuring communication between Form and Subject Teachers and the specialist Learning Support staff. Support is offered to pupils, parents and staff alike.

We believe Learning Support is about helping pupils with additional learning needs to find strategies to overcome their difficulties while building confidence and self-esteem, enabling them to become independent learners. 

Assessment and screening procedures are in place throughout the school, ensuring any Additional Needs are identified as early as possible in the child’s education.  Pupils who require specialist support include those with the following difficulties:

• Specific Learning Difficulties 
• Emotional, Behavioural and Social Difficulties
• Speech and Language Difficulties
• Sensory and Physical Difficulties

Following identification, appropriate intervention is arranged by Mrs Sarah Howell-Jones, Additional Learning Needs Co-ordinator. This may take the form of differentiation in the classroom, additional support in the classroom, group support on a withdrawal basis, working on an intervention programme or individual help with one of the school’s Specialist Tutors.

Reasonable adjustments to timetables and strategies for support are arranged on an individualised basis, taking into account individuals strengths and areas of need. Access Arrangements for external examinations are made as appropriate.

Parents are consulted and kept informed of recommended support and of any additional costs that may arise as a result of this, at all times.  Advice is also sought from outside agencies for assessment, advice on planning, delivering and monitoring appropriate programmes as necessary. 

Following our participation in Neurodiversity Week 2023, we are pleased that the School has successfully been recognised by Autism Wales for completing the Learning About Autism Programme.