Total communication
One of the many things that sets us aside from other schools is our multi-disciplinary approach. The children that come to St Piers have a range of disabilities, and only by being flexible is it possible to treat each child as an individual.
For us, communication is one of the most important skills we can help our pupils develop. It’s central to their psychological, social and emotional well being, not to mention academic progress.
To do this, we use an approach called ‘total communication’. This involves looking at each child’s individual needs and using any method of communication available to supplement speech – from Signalong and pictorial references, to objects of reference and symbols.
By encouraging our pupils to communicate in this way, we are able to help them express themselves and, in doing so, unlock a barrier that many of them have faced for years.
Intensive interaction
For children who experience more severe and profound learning difficulties, our intensive interaction sessions help to improve communication and engagement.
Our son is communicating his needs more clearly and improving in making choices. The teacher keeps us well informed on his progress. 
