Monifieth High School

Special Education Needs

The main objective of the Support for Learning and Inclusion Department is to help pupils of all abilities to achieve their best across the curriculum. Inclusion is a top priority and this is made possible through consultation and collaboration with colleagues in subject departments. Co-operative teaching and development of curricular materials to meet the needs of pupils ensures successful integration into mainstream classes for the vast majority of pupils. Where more severe difficulties make only partial integration possible, the pupils spend more time in the SFLI department for ‘one to one’ or small group teaching with the construction of individualised learning plans. However, integration for various activities within the wider school community is arranged wherever this is possible. A ‘Paired Reading’ scheme is available to those with moderate reading difficulties while more specific language difficulties are addressed through specialised reading schemes and Alternative Assessment Arrangements for all assessments including national examinations. We also provide ‘special services’ in a new Resource Base to meet the social and emotional needs of pupils who, for example, may be returning to school after a protracted absence or who, for a variety of reasons, may feel the need for a ‘secure’ environment either short or long term. The Support for Learning Department places a high value on the significant contribution that can be made by parents and is committed to establishing a close working relationship between the department and home.