Department of Learning Support

Our department has an excellent reputation and is proficient at understanding and responding to students with special needs.

There are four teachers who work as specialist maths and English teachers and within the two communication disorders classes. We also have a post-16 provision for students on the autistic spectrum, who need extra support.

Our team is led by Mrs Hayley Lewis the Head of Learning Support and Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO). Should you have any need to contact our department please contact Mrs Lewis on this direct line number 01443 680119 or hl1@porthcountycommunity.rhondda.sch.uk.

The department also has approximately 8 learning support/teaching assistants, both qualified and working towards vocational qualifications.

Our staff are dedicated to helping your child to reach their full potential, both academically and socially, minimising their difficulties and maximising their independence.

If you are thinking about coming to our school, you may want to ask some questions.

 Do other students have difficulties like me?

Yes, they do. Some students have difficulty reading, writing or spelling, others have problems organising themselves, remembering instructions or concentrating. There are students who find it very hard to stay in their seats in class or to control their anger, and others who find it difficult to talk to people, make friends or join in. We also have students who are in wheelchairs or have other kinds of physical difficulties.

Will I be in a large class?

It depends. We may decide that you need to be in a small class (usually less than 12 students). We will usually make this decision after we have visited you in your junior school and spoken to your teacher. If you are in a larger class you may have a support assistant to help you sometimes, or we may just need to let your teachers know you have some difficulties and that you need extra help and understanding.

Who will teach me if I am in a small class?

You will be taught by subject teachers the same as everyone else, but because you will probably have problems with reading, writing and number work, you will be taught maths and English by teachers who have been specially trained to help students with special needs. These teachers are part of the Learning Support department.

Where can I go if I need help?

Staff in Support Base (a room in the Learning Support department) will always help you if you have a problem or are worried. They will also be outside at break times and lunchtimes and you will find them in the dinner hall, if you have lunch in school. They are there to help you if they can, or will show you where to get the help you need.

Outside Agencies

Support is offered in school by other agencies. These include Behaviour Support, a Specific Learning Difficulties tutor, a Speech Therapist, a Physiotherapist and Social Services.