Speech and Language skills are at the heart of a child's development and can be one of the most worrying areas for a parent with concerns. Speech and Language needs can occur without being linked to any other need and your child does not need an EHCP or diagnosis to gain further support. 

Often children progress in this area when surrounded by communication-rich environments that encourage conversation and the introduction of new vocabulary. All children develop at different rates therefore it is important to consider their individual needs and presentations, not in comparison with siblings or friends. 

At Bapchild we have our own Speech and Language Therapist, Louise, who visits every Tuesday morning to work with us. She is able to carry out assessments, deliver one-to-one sessions and provide training for all different members of staff. In order to access Louise's support the school will complete a referral form, highlighting our key concerns. For a child to be assessed we would require parental permission therefore this decision would be discussed with you. Each time Louise works with a pupil, she will create a report that is accessed by both the families and the class team working with that child. The school's SENCo is also informed and this just ensures that everybody is aware of the progress being made and the provision that is in place. 

We also complete a Wellcomm Screening for our children in Reception. This assesses their level of understanding and enables us to plan and provide any further needed interventions and/or resources. Sometimes we may revisit this tool should further concerns be raised, the Wellcomm Toolkit can be used throughout a child's primary career. 

Should you require further support or guidance please speak to your child's class teacher in the first instance, you may notice different things at home to what we see at school. Alternatively you can contact the school's SENCo, Samantha Sholl on samantha.sholl@bapchild.kent.sch.uk. Louise has also recommended the following websites for helpful information and resources - 

BBC Tiny Happy People

Help for families - Speech and Language UK: Changing young lives