Speech and Language Department

The Speech and Language Department in Belvoir Park Primary School opened in September 1999, providing specialised education for pupils with speech and language difficulties in Key Stage 2. Initially there was one class of P4 pupils. Each year there has been a new intake of P4 pupils, so that from September 2001 the Department has catered for pupils from P4 - P7. In September 2001 another teacher was appointed to teach the third intake of P4 pupils into the Department. In 2004 a third teacher was appointed to help develop the department. This year we have expanded again to accommodate our fourth class within the SLD.

The staff in the Department consists at present of four teachers, two teaching P4/5 and the others teaching P6 and P7. In addition there are five classroom assistants and two Speech and Language Therapists who divide their time between two Speech and Language Departments.

All pupils have access to the Northern Ireland Curriculum through the Programmes of Study relevant to their age, ability and attainment. Teaching is in a small group setting where therapies are integrated with class work. Educational visits outside the school are organised regularly and some of the pupils have attended a 3-day residential trip. There is also an annual Speech Camp held at the end of the school year. It is organised by a Speech and Language Therapist for children attending a number of Speech and Language Departments and a group is selected from Belvoir Park Speech and Language Department.

The Department seeks to improve the pupils’ skills in communication and social interaction and their awareness of appropriate behaviour. It also aims to increase their ability to work independently. Every opportunity is taken to integrate the pupils into general school life. Regular liaison between home and school is a valued feature of the Department.

The Department aims to create a caring, secure and happy environment where learning experiences can be maximised and where children can grow and develop intellectually, socially and emotionally.

Staff in the Speech and Language Department
2007/8