To encourage shared reading and give regular reading practice we have a weekly Buddy Reading Scheme led by our Teaching Assistants and Sixth Form volunteers. This gives students the encouragement to enjoy reading, build confidence and to meet new friends.

Positive Play/Support was first introduced to the school approximately 6 years ago and is still an effective activity within the department. Positive Support is in place to support students who lack self esteem or  who are having emotional issues either at home or at school. A student has a weekly session delivered by our Teaching Assistants who have been trained to deliver Positive Play using games and other resources. The same Teaching Assistant will be assigned to a student as continuity is vital in building  positive relationships. The support may last from year 7 through to 11 but more often a student is able to cope without sessions after a year or so.

Nurture groups were started in 1969 by Marjorie Boxall an Educational Psychologist employed by the ILEA.  A nurture group was set up 3 years ago to help with the transition of students from year 6 to year 7. This runs for 6 weeks leading up to the summer holidays and for the first 6 weeks in September. We run two groups at present with 11-12 students in each group.

Our Nurture room is a place of calm and rest where students can achieve at a basic level with no fear of rejection or ‘getting it wrong’. The aims of the weekly sessions are to improve social skills, build self esteem and to turn negative behaviours into positive ones. Our Nurture groups provide a homely atmosphere where students can avoid stress and talk to supportive staff regarding any worries or concerns. Activities include arts, crafts, reading, spelling, maths, roleplay, cooking and many other tasks that encourage active participation and enjoyment.