Speech and Language Provision
At Orchard Infant School, we recognise that early talk is the foundation for learning. Children's speech, language and communication skills underpin their ability to learn, build relationships, express themselves, and develop emotional wellbeing. Supporting these skills as early as possible helps children to thrive both in school and beyond.
We are incredibly fortunate at Orchard Infant School to have a dedicated Speech and Language Support Assistant (SaLSA), Mrs Bowen, working within our school. Our SaLSA is also a qualified teacher with over 20 years of teaching experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role.
What does our Speech and Language Support Assistant do?
Our SaLSA works closely with children, families and staff to identify and support pupils who may need additional help with their speech, language or communication skills. This includes:
- Supporting children who already have speech and language intervention plans in place.
- Identifying and supporting children who need additional help with speech and language while at school.
- Working with children, individually or in groups, who experience difficulties with language comprehension and understanding.
- Liaising closely with the SENDCo and external speech and language professionals to ensure children receive the most appropriate support.
We believe that early identification and intervention can make a significant difference to a child's confidence, communication and future learning.
Blueberries Classroom
Children with a speech and language need at Orchard Infant School benefit from working within our designated Speech and Language classroom, The Blueberries, providing a calm, welcoming environment where targeted support can take place.
Alongside these planned intervention sessions, we recognise the importance of developing communication as part of everyday school life. Our SaLSA works alongside children within their classrooms, supporting them to develop their speech, language and communication skills in real-life learning situations.
We also make full use of our wonderful school grounds, incorporating outdoor spaces into interventions where appropriate. These natural, engaging environments encourage conversation, develop vocabulary and provide meaningful opportunities for children to practise their communication skills in a range of contexts.
Help and Support
If your child attends Orchard Infant School and you are concerned about your child’s speech or language comprehension, please share these concerns with your child’s class teacher, the SENDCo or SaLSA. Our SaLSA will be happy to get in touch and work alongside you.
Free Resource
In addition, the website: Speech and Language UK offers a free Progress Checker for parents. It asks a series of simple questions about your child and provides guidance on whether their communication skills are developing as expected. If you choose to provide your email address, you'll also receive practical tips and activities to support your child at home.
If you remain concerned after completing the checker, Speech and Language UK also offers:
- A free phone consultation with a speech and language specialist.
- Free webinars for parents and carers covering a range of speech, language and communication topics.
- A wealth of practical advice and resources to help families support their children's development.
You can access all of these resources through Speech and Language UK's Help for Families page.
