The Learning Support department plays a core role in facilitating academic success for our students, guiding them with learning skills, whether that be study skills for all or specialist teaching for those who have an identified additional learning need.

Reading Blue Coat provides for mild additional learning needs and operates a graduated response to provision for additional needs.

The department works closely as part of our academic and pastoral teams, alongside and in consultation with the medical team. We liaise with parents and the wider staff body to communicate individual needs and strategies to provide effective provision following assessment or during the process of emerging needs or diagnosis.

On entry to Years 7 and 9, baseline assessment of literacy skills and a screener for dyslexia are administered. New Year 12 students are also screened for dyslexic difficulties. The department shares strategies with teachers for students requiring more support via a Pupil Information Passport, and it may be recommended to refer to external professionals to establish emerging additional needs, including exam access arrangements.

The department refers to our associated specialist assessor for exam access arrangement assessment, and a team of wider professionals including clinical and educational psychology and psychiatry when required. Costs for assessment are met directly by parents.