Welcome to the Specialist Centre 

Here in the Specialist Centre we provide specialist provision for around 20 students with speech, language and communication difficulties. We only have spaces for 4 students each year. The students are all of average or above average intelligence non-verbally, but have a Statement of Special Education Needs for language difficulties. This can include problems with vocabulary, speech, reading, spelling, comprehension, social skills, sequencing and memory. Some students also have autistic spectrum disorders.

With the support of the staff in the centre, students are able to be fully integrated into school life and study a full curriculum. The recent Ofsted inspection (Autumn 2010) stated:

“Therfield is a caring school where students say they feel very safe. The level of care, guidance and support the school provides for all students is excellent, especially for those students who are most vulnerable and those at risk of not remaining in education. The highly effective support has enabled them to continue with their education.”

The staff in the Centre are able to offer students:

• Support in the majority of lessons from the Head of the Centre or teaching assistants.
• Withdrawal lessons enabling small group or one-to-one tuition to tackle individual difficulties.
• Speech and language therapy.
• Extensive resources, including computer software to help with specific learning problems.
• Optional homework club to ensure students do not struggle with the workload.
• A school experience that is tailored, as far as possible, to meet each student’s particular needs. For some students this has included short term work experience, vocational courses such as motor vehicle maintenance, training in skills needed for independence, like travel, interview techniques or help with extra-curricular activities like Duke of Edinburgh Award.
  

Please download the Specialist Centre Booklet below for extended information