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SEND support: Pupil observation

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6-11 year-olds 'The Village'

Blended vocabulary, language structure and reading programme for EAL and multilingual learners

Image as the language of instruction for learners of ANY language background

Independent learning • small-group teaching • differentiation in class • high interest, low level reading support

For 6-11 year-olds

11-16 year-olds 'The Islands'

Blended vocabulary, language structure and reading programme for EAL and multilingual learners

Image as the language of instruction for learners of ANY language background

Independent learning • small-group teaching • differentiation in class • high interest, low level reading support

For 11-16 year-olds

Post-16/adults (Community Village)

Blended vocabulary, language structure and reading programme for ESOL and multilingual adult learners

Supporting school community members with their integration into school community life!

High interest, low level reading - image as the language of instruction for learners of ANY language background.

AssessEP

Across Cultures English Proficiency Assessment (AssessEP) is an easy assessment to administer, suitable for learners aged 7+ through to adult.

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A virtual consultancy process at your own pace and at a time convenient for you aiming to provide staff with the skills and resources needed to successfully support language learners within the demands of the curriculum and of a multilingual world.

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Illustration of a woman observing something

Author: Karen Wilson, SEND Specialist

Approximate reading time: 1 minute

Understanding the needs of your learners is essential. Learners who use English as an additional language may also have additional learning needs, and sometimes separating language needs from learning needs can be challenging. Assessment results and classroom work offer some insight; however, taking the time to carefully observe your learners’ behaviours can provide a deeper appreciation of their needs. This can help you consider necessary adjustments or interventions, or support further assessments of specific SEND needs.

Tip or Idea: When looking at the needs of a learner, try to involve everyone who has a connection with them. This includes parents, lunchtime supervisors, teaching assistants, sports coaches, and class teachers. They may see the learner in different contexts, which helps to build a fuller picture of their behaviours and needs and identify any common patterns.

Learning Village resource: Our simple pupil behaviour observation sheet enables all staff working with a learner to easily record which behaviours are displayed and how often.

SEND support: Using games to learn

Created: Mon 23rd Mar 2026

Games are one of the most effective ways to support both SEND and EAL learners because they reduce anxiety, increase engagement, and make language learning fun! Structured games also offer additional benefits for SEND learners by encouraging attention, turn-taking, and understanding routines. Visual rules, simple instructions, and predictable formats also help reduce cognitive load whilst keeping learning active and inclusive.

SEND support: Unique learner needs

Created: Wed 31st Jul 2024

Every learner is unique! This includes your SEND learners. Sometimes you need to create a bespoke resource to support their individual needs.

Tip or Idea: Using multimodal resources can provide a multi-layered approach to learning, removing barriers for learners and creating a fun, engaging learning environment.

SEND support: Supporting SEND learners with reading

Created: Fri 31st Jan 2025

Reading opens up endless possibilities for learning, growth and development. However, for some learners, including those with SEND, barriers can make reading more challenging. Fortunately, by employing a range of strategies tailored to each learner's individual needs, you can support reading developing for all.

Tip or Idea: Empower learners to choose reading material that interests and engages them. Graphic novels can be a strong motivator for even the most reluctant readers. Combining visuals with text helps make reading more accessible and enjoyable.

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