The Learning Development Department (LDD)

The Learning Development Department (LDD) is under the direction of the SENCO, Ms Salih. The department runs small Curriculum Support groups throughout Years 7 to 11. Students eligible for Curriculum Support are those with clear indicators of a learning difficulty. A student in Curriculum Support is placed on the SEN Register and will be at one of three thresholds as identified by the Code of Practice - School Action, School Action Plus or a Statement. Specialist SEN teachers focus on Maths and English in Years 7 to 9 as well as the My Journey and My World projects in years 7 and 8. In Year 9, SEN staff also provides advice and support for the Options process. At Key Stage 4, students are able to focus on all areas of the curriculum in their lessons.

The SENCO and the Specialist SEN teachers are responsible for testing and recommending special considerations for examinations including Lower School exams, GCSEs and AS/A Levels.

LSTAs (Learning Support Teaching Assistants) and BSTAs (Behaviour Support Teaching Assistants) support identified students in the classroom setting and run lunchtime Homework Clubs and Social Skills Groups.

Additionally, the SENCO manages a BESD (Behavioural, Social and Emotional Difficulties) team, which mentors students with BESD. For students who need more intensive support, a Behavioural Support Assistant will meet students more regularly and regular reviews will take place to discuss progress. Identified students are referred by their Head of Year and parents and carers are consulted in the referral process. Students who receive BESN support are also placed on the SEN Register on School Action or School Action Plus.

The SENCo offers a 6th form drop-in for students who wish to discuss academic and/or personal issues.

SEN Evaluation for parents to complete

One of the most important areas for us is to ensure that parents feel that they are listened to regarding their child’s special educational needs and feel confident that their child’s needs are met at Coombe Girls’ School.

In order to improve our practice, therefore, we would be grateful if you could take the time to complete this short evaluation if you have had contact with the SEN department in any form, for example, attendance at Annual Reviews, School Action Plus reviews, parents’ evenings, meetings or phone calls to discuss a particular SEN learning or pastoral issue.
Thank you in advance for your time.

Parents Evaluation Questionaire

ASD Parents Support Groups

ASD Parents Support Groups Information

Confident Parenting

Parenting Ideas Tip Sheets by Michael Grose for you to download.

Michael Grose has a fantastic track record of helping parents and professionals raise and teach children and young people. Every year he presents hugely practical and entertaining messages to thousands of people who want the latest and best parenting advice.

He is the author of seven books for parents, including 'Why first borns rule the world and last borns want to change it' and 'One step ahead'. Michael is married and together with his wife Sue has raised three diverse but delightful children.