SEN
Learning Support - SEN Team
![]() SENCO |
![]() Learning Support Assistant |
![]() Learning Support Assistant |
Supporting Every Child’s Learning Journey
At our school, pupils are continuously assessed by their class teachers throughout the year. This ongoing assessment helps identify any learning difficulties early, allowing us to provide timely and targeted support.
We are proud to have three dedicated Learning Support Teachers who work with pupils both one-on-one and in small groups outside the classroom. In addition, our classroom assistants offer consistent support within the learning environment. These sessions take place in well-equipped rooms featuring Interactive Whiteboards, laptops, and iPads to enhance engagement and accessibility.
We believe in strong partnerships with parents and carers. Regular communication ensures that families are kept informed about their child’s progress and development. A copy of the school’s Special Needs Policy is available upon request.
Some of the specialised programmes, resources, and techniques we use include:
Toe by Toe
A highly structured, phonics-based reading programme designed for children who struggle with decoding words. It uses a step-by-step approach that builds confidence and fluency, making it ideal for pupils with dyslexia or other reading difficulties.
Reading Partners
A peer or adult-led reading support initiative that encourages regular reading practice in a supportive environment. It helps improve reading fluency, comprehension, and confidence through consistent, guided sessions.
Nessy Learning Programme
An engaging, interactive online platform designed to support children with dyslexia and other literacy challenges. It covers phonics, reading, spelling, and writing through fun games and activities tailored to individual learning needs.
Alpha to Omega
A structured literacy programme based on the Orton-Gillingham approach, which is particularly effective for children with dyslexia. It integrates phonics, spelling, and vocabulary development in a systematic way.
Fresh Start
A phonics-based literacy intervention from Read Write Inc., aimed at older pupils who need support with reading and writing. It helps close gaps in literacy by revisiting key phonics concepts in age-appropriate materials and activities.
Maths Recovery
A targeted intervention programme that helps pupils who are experiencing difficulties in early numeracy. It focuses on building a strong foundation in number sense, counting, and problem-solving through personalised learning strategies.
Sensory Room
A calming, multi-sensory space designed to support pupils with sensory processing needs. It provides a safe environment for relaxation, regulation, and sensory exploration, helping children manage stress and improve focus.
.............and many more tailored interventions designed to meet individual needs.
https://www.middletownautism.com/
Sensory Room
At Ballymena Primary School we have our own Sensory room where pupils may come and spend some time.
Education Authority - Special Educationl Needs Links
Sensory Corridor
Nurture Room
An area for Social and Emotional Wellbeing Support.
TIM (This Is Me) Club
TIM Club pupils created their own, beautifully decorated, inspirational rocks.
Numeracy Support
Maths Recovery Intervention Programme
Literacy Support