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Speech & Language Therapy

Speech and language therapy is all about communication – the understanding and use of language in its many and varied forms.  We understand how language, communication, learning and education work together. 

To support learners with language, communication or sensory impairments, our speech and language therapists are involved in all aspects of school and residential life including activities such as field trips and school productions.  The speech and language therapy support is consistent and structured for each and every learner.

The Therapy team’s aims are to:

  • develop social independence and competent communication to support young people to fulfil their potential in life
  • provide a focus on language within the classroom and learning environment
  • enable learners to access the educational curriculum more efficiently providing consistent support to maximise their capacity for learning
  • support learners to develop and apply long-term management strategies for their impairments
  • guide learners in participating in setting aims and evaluating their own progress
  • support learners to gain the skills they need to integrate into their communities and work when they leave St Catherine’s  
  • evaluate learners’ abilities and communicate information, as appropriate, to parents and families, local authorities and other relevant stakeholders.

Speech and language therapy is tailored to the individual needs of each learner taking account of age, cognitive ability, maturity and self awareness and the current and future demands of their skills. 

Shopping

Developing social interaction skills and providing opportunities for young people to practise these new skills is a central focus of the speech and language therapy team.  At St Catherine’s, our Social Interaction Programme spans the Main School and Further Education Centre.  The programme encompasses a wide range of skills which enhance many aspects of interaction, including making friends and socialising, learning how to problem solve and how to manage tensions and pressure.  As our children become young people we also look beyond their time at St Catherine’s and assist them to develop skills for socialising, communicating in the work place and to support independent living. 

Our central location in the beautiful coastal town of Ventnor and our interaction with the local community provides opportunities for our learners to develop and practise their skills first hand. 

Much of our work is also spent with learners out in the community.  The Island has a wealth of sporting, leisure and community activities we access and participate in.  We work with and support our learners to develop their communication skills in social activities such as shopping or travelling on public transport.   We also liaise with local companies with regard to work experience placements.  St Catherine’s location provides a unique opportunity to develop and practice skills learnt in the classroom and therapy sessions.