Therapies and Specialist Support

 

Pupils at Cedars have different needs, so support is planned around the individual. Class teams work with families, therapists and other professionals to understand what helps each pupil communicate, take part in learning and manage their wellbeing.

Some pupils receive direct support from therapists. Staff may also use strategies and programmes recommended by therapists during lessons and everyday routines. The support a pupil receives depends on their assessed needs and individual plan.

 

Therapy and specialist input

Specialist input may include speech and language therapy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy. A therapist may work directly with a pupil, advise their class team, recommend equipment or develop a programme for staff to use.

 

We also work with Tree Tops Occupational Therapy, whose occupational therapists visit Cedars. They provide specialist input for pupils with sensory and movement needs and advise staff on approaches that can be used during the school day.

 

Where a pupil’s Education, Health and Care plan (EHCP) specifies therapy or other specialist provision, we work with the relevant professionals to arrange that support.

 

Movement, sensory learning and wellbeing

At Low Fell, our pool is used for hydrotherapy and sensory swimming. Pupils may also take part in rebound therapy, sensory activities and other approaches planned around their needs.

 

Staff use creative and practical activities, including music, art, drama, play and outdoor learning, to support participation and wellbeing.

These activities are different from clinical therapies delivered by appropriately qualified therapists.

 

Counselling and emotional support

Kalmer Counselling provides counselling support for pupils at Cedars. Its work is more focused at High Heworth, but support is available at both sites where appropriate. Class teams and pastoral staff also work with pupils and families when additional emotional support is needed.

 

Spaces and support at our sites

Low Fell: Our Therapy Centre contains a sensory room, soft play area, immersive room and sensory integration and movement room. The site also has a hydrotherapy pool and rebound therapy room. Pupils take part in Forest School sessions, and Poppy, our therapy dog, is part of the wider support available.

High Heworth: Specialist teaching and pastoral support help students develop communication, independence and emotional wellbeing. Ozzy, our therapy dog, is part of life at the site.

 

When a pupil needs extra support

At times, a pupil may need more focused help to take part in learning or manage a difficult period. Their class team works with the pastoral team, family and relevant professionals to agree an approach that responds to their needs.