What we do – Speech and Language Therapists
We are employed by South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust and provide support into Bamburgh School.
We aim to support a total communications environment and to upskill others (people important to the child who see them regularly, such as class staff) to support communication developent in the most appropriate way for each child.
| Total Communication is about using the right combination of communication methods for each person. This helps individuals to form connections and supports successful interaction and exchanges. A combination of methods are used, which reinforce each other and strengthen meaning for the individual. Total communication is also about creating a positive environment that will help individuals to communicate and interact. It may include environmental changes as well as a change in communication style. For example, some individuals may need sensory/regulation breaks as part of their approach or a reduction in background noise to support their overall engagement. |
Most of the work carried out by the SLT is following the active support pathway.
| Active support usually involves a reassessment of need, followed by up to three sessions of active support input. There is usually a time period of up to four weeks between sessions to allow time for changes and strategies to be put in place. We will assess, make recommendations, try activities and share resources and strategies as appropriate for your child’s current communication needs and priorities. We will usually arrange a session with a parent/carer and/or a member of school staff as part of active support. |
Sometimes, direct therapy with a SLT may be indicated. If this is the case, this will be discussed with you. Usually, the types of needs we support in Bamburgh School are best suited to the active support pathway as described above.
How Speech and Language is delivered in school
Speech and Language Therapists working within Bamburgh School