Therapies
We believe that a period of intensive therapeutic intervention can be beneficial to for some of our pupils. The school employs a number of therapists who work directly with the pupils, give specialist advice to the teaching and support staff and contribute to the planning of each pupil's programme.
Speech and language therapy
Woodcroft has two speech and language therapists who assess and deliver programmes to pupils for all areas of language and communication development. Pupils may have individual sessions or take part in classes or groups where the therapists work alongside the class teacher and support staff. The focus is upon the development of communication in a functional setting. A speech therapist co-ordinates the school's approach to the National Literacy Strategy. Speech therapy support is available during term time and holidays.
Occupational therapy
The school employs a full-time occupational therapist whose support enables pupils to develop and practice daily living skills and to acquire learning skills through the encouragement of play. Particular emphasis is placed on improving fine motor skills including the development of handwriting.
Music therapy
Pupils also benefit from weekly individual sessions with the part-time music therapist. The therapist seeks to establish contact with the pupil through the shared use of sound leading to them developing their own music. By establishing a relationship through music the child can experience and explore new ways of relating, leading to development and change. There is also the opportunity to develop self-expression, self-confidence and communication within a safe, boundaried environment.
Physiotherapy
The school's part-time physiotherapist has individual and group sessions with pupils where the emphasis is upon the development of motor skills. The physiotherapist is available to support pupils and their families during term time, holidays and visits to paediatricians. A range of equipment is available.