Communication is at the heart of everything we do. From practical communication tools embedded across education and residential care, to direct specialist therapy sessions, all activities work towards ensuring that our students’ needs are met and their ideas are valued.

Each student starts their journey at St Catherine’s with a comprehensive and individualised assessment process, to build a detailed picture of their unique communication profile. This informs support, joint planning, direct therapy, and family understanding.

Our Speech and Language Therapy team use a range of evidence-based and neuro-affirming approaches to ensure students are able to develop their skills, and advocate for their support needs. This is particularly important when we consider the lifelong impact of language difficulties and the need to not only target the development of specific skills, but work towards our students accessing a truly inclusive environment.

Communication support goes beyond the boundaries of school and college, as we work closely with members of the wider community to provide meaningful opportunities to practise skills in the local town.

Therapy takes a variety of formats, which are woven into each student’s weekly routine, including 1:1 and small group sessions, functional skills practice, and joint working with Occupational Therapy. Therapy is delivered within the framework of each student's tailored plan and reviewed annually to monitor progress and facilitate integrated care.