Communication

Communication is at the heart of everything we do

At Chellow Heights School, we believe that every pupil has the right to communicate, be listened to and be understood.

We recognise that every pupil communicates differently. Communication may be through speech, signing, gestures, facial expressions, body language, objects, symbols, technology or a combination of different approaches.

We use a Total Communication approach, ensuring that pupils have access to the communication methods that are most meaningful and effective for them. Our aim is to support every pupil to express their needs, make choices, share their thoughts and feelings, develop relationships and participate as fully as possible in school life.

Individualised communication support

Our Communication Team works alongside pupils, families, class teams and therapists to develop highly individualised communication support packages.

We consider each pupil’s strengths, preferences and communication needs to identify the approaches and resources that will best support them.

Our pupils may use a range of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) approaches, including:

• Touch Cues
• Objects of Reference
• Eye Gaze
• Switches
• Makaton signing
• Symbol exchange
• Photographs and visual supports
• Communication books and boards
• Electronic communication devices
• Other personalised AAC systems

Different approaches may be used together and may change as a pupil’s communication develops.