Penyrheol Comprehensive School

Staff demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting pupils with additional learning needs (ALN) in order for them to become confident learners. The ALN team passionately promote equity for pupils who experience barriers to learning and have established a highly nurturing and caring environment. As a result, pupils with ALN participate confidently and actively in the life of the school. Leaders work purposefully with partner primary schools to develop an early understanding of pupils’ needs and ensure they benefit from effective enhanced transition arrangements. This ensures these pupils build confidence and settle well into secondary school. The ALN team works productively with parents, external agencies and school colleagues to develop appropriate individual development plans (IDPs), which are supported well by useful One-Page Profiles. These provide staff with clear guidance on how to meet pupils’ needs effectively. Pupils with ALN also benefit from a range of worthwhile interventions to help support their social and emotional development, in addition to their literacy skills. Leaders carefully monitor pupil progress and the impact of interventions and support against IDP targets, through person-centred review meetings. As a result, pupils with ALN feel well supported and make at least expected progress from their individual starting points. The ALN team share their expertise effectively, ensuring that staff receive appropriate training to meet the diverse needs of pupils. This includes professional learning on effective strategies to meet the needs of pupils with neurodevelopmental disorders.