Our on-site Speech and Language Therapists support children to communicate as effectively as possible. This may include the use of specialist resources such as communication books (for example PODD) and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems.
The SALT team also support children with eating and swallowing difficulties, helping them to eat and drink safely.
Following assessment, observation, and consultation, an individual support plan is agreed for each student. Support may include:
• Staff and parent training
• Communication or feeding guidelines
• Modelling strategies
• Target setting and joint planning
• Short goal focused intervention delivered individually or in groups.
• Assessment and provision of specialist equipment
Our Physiotherapists are specialists in movement and physical development. They support children to develop movement skills, physical independence, and confidence. Movement is key to learning about themselves and their environment.
Physiotherapy needs are reviewed regularly. Physiotherapists work closely with class teams and other professionals and may provide:
• Training and guidance
• Joint assessments
• Goal setting and planning
• Postural management programmes
• Short goal focused intervention delivered individually or in groups.
• Assessment and provision of equipment
We also provide blocks of intensive input after orthopaedic surgery or botulinum toxin treatment.
Orthotics clinics are run at school for local students, supported by the physiotherapy team, to provide specialist orthoses such as AFOs. Some programmes may be delivered by class teams following guidance from a physiotherapist.
Occupational Therapists help children take part in everyday activities that are meaningful to them. These include:
• Play and leisure
• Self-care (eating, drinking, dressing, toileting)
• Accessing the curriculum
• Developing independence at school and in the community
OTs assess a child’s skills (such as sensory processing, fine motor skills, and posture), how they manage daily activities, and what support or adaptations may be needed.
Targeted intervention may be provided to achieve specific functional goals. This may include class-based programmes, group work, or short goal focused blocks of intervention delivered individually or in groups. Support may include assessment and provision of specialist equipment such as switches, splints, specialist seating, or other equipment. We also provide training and guidance to class teams around supporting students to engage and participate.
The Special Schools Nursing Team includes registered nurses and healthcare assistants who deliver safe, evidence-based, person-centred care. They are based on site and provide a wide range of clinical care to ensure students are safe, well and able to access education.
The team works in partnership with parents and carers, education staff, community nursing teams, continuing care services, and other professionals to meet each student’s individual health needs.
The nursing team develop Individual Healthcare Plans and play a key role in transition planning, supporting students as they move from children to adult services.
They also provide training to school staff in line with Individual Healthcare Plans enabling staff to respond confidently and appropriately to student’s medical needs.
In addition, the nursing team help to coordinate on-site health clinics such as medical reviews and immunisation sessions. They work closely with community paediatricians who provide school-based clinics, reducing the need for students to attend appointments outside of school.
Our Dietitians support children and families to make informed and practical choices about nutrition, promoting health and wellbeing.
At school, the dietitian works closely with the medical team and Speech and Language Therapists to support children with:
• Faltering growth
• Food allergies
• Restrictive eating
• Enteral feeding
For more information about the Islington Additional Needs & Disability Service, please
Visit our Website https://www.whittington.nhs.uk/IANDS
