Interventions/Therapies/support

Our Graduated Support Offer

At Barrs Court School, we use a graduated approach to ensure every pupil receives the right level of support to thrive.

Universal Support

Universal support is available to all pupils as part of everyday school life. This includes high-quality teaching, inclusive classroom practice, and a nurturing environment that promotes wellbeing, communication, independence, and learning for every child.

Targeted Support

Targeted support is provided for pupils who need additional help to overcome specific barriers to learning or development. This support is carefully planned, reviewed regularly, and delivered through focused interventions, either individually or in small groups.

Specialist Support

Specialist support is provided for pupils with more complex or significant needs. This highly personalised support may include specialist programmes, equipment, and input from trained staff and external professionals to ensure pupils can fully access learning and achieve positive outcomes.

Barrs Court School – Targeted Support Offer

Targeted Communication Support

Targeted communication support is provided for pupils who need additional help to develop their communication skills. Support is planned and delivered by a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA), under the guidance of a qualified teacher and the senior leader responsible for Communication. Interventions may take place one-to-one or in small groups and focus on helping pupils understand and express themselves, develop interaction skills, and communicate in meaningful and functional ways. A range of approaches are used, including visual supports, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), sensory-informed strategies, and personalised resources. Progress is closely monitored to ensure support is effective and removes barriers to learning.

Targeted Support for Early Thinking Skills

Targeted support for Early Thinking Skills helps pupils develop the foundations for learning. Delivered by an HLTA under the guidance of a qualified teacher and the Deputy Headteacher responsible for Early Thinking Skills, support focuses on attention, engagement, problem-solving, cause and effect, early play skills, and readiness for learning. Interventions are personalised and delivered individually or in small groups using sensory-informed, practical, and play-based approaches. Progress is regularly reviewed to ensure pupils develop confidence, curiosity, and independence.

Personal Development and Employability

Personal Development and Employability support helps pupils develop independence, confidence, and life skills in preparation for adulthood. Through planned activities and real-life experiences, pupils build social skills, resilience, and positive attitudes towards learning and work. Support includes careers education and Independent Advice and Guidance (IAG), work-related learning, work experience opportunities, and travel training where appropriate. Strong partnerships with local employers and the community support pupils to explore future pathways and achieve positive destinations.

Mobility

Mobility support helps pupils develop the physical skills and confidence needed to move safely and independently within school and beyond. Delivered by specialist staff under the guidance of a qualified teacher and the Deputy Headteacher responsible for Mobility, provision focuses on movement, posture, balance, coordination, and safe mobility. Specialist equipment and consistent manual handling strategies are used to ensure pupils are supported safely, with dignity, and in ways that promote inclusion and independence.

Therapeutic Provision

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy provides pupils with opportunities to develop physical control, mobility, and independence in a supportive water-based environment. It allows pupils to experience movement that may not be possible on land and supports muscle tone, balance, coordination, and confidence. Hydrotherapy can reduce joint pain, lower muscle tone, improve cardiovascular fitness, and enhance sensory awareness. Being free from equipment such as wheelchairs or splints enables pupils to experience greater independence, develop new skills, and increase social interaction.

Rebound Therapy

Rebound Therapy uses a trampoline as a therapeutic tool to support pupils with a range of additional needs, including autism and attention difficulties. The trampoline provides a powerful sensory and movement experience that helps pupils understand how their bodies move. Benefits include improved balance, coordination, muscle tone, communication, confidence, body awareness, social interaction, and emotional wellbeing. Sessions also promote enjoyment, motivation, and a strong sense of achievement.

Specialist Support at Barrs Court School

Our specialist support offer is designed to meet the individual needs of pupils with complex learning, physical, communication, and emotional needs. This includes:

• Physiotherapy – supporting movement, strength, and mobility

• Occupational Therapy (OT) – focusing on postural management, sensory regulation, and functional skills

• Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) – supporting communication, interaction, and understanding

• NHS Speech and Language Therapy – additional specialist input where required

• Travel Training – developing independence and confidence for adulthood

• Music Therapy – supporting emotional wellbeing, engagement, and self-expression

• CAMHS – access to mental health and emotional wellbeing support when appropriate

All specialist support is carefully coordinated and regularly reviewed to ensure a holistic, joined-up approach that places each pupil’s wellbeing, inclusion, and progress at the centre of provision.

Please ask if you need any further information.