Enhancing literacy and numeracy through specialised learning support

Barriers to learning

Research undertaken by Our Lady of Grace Catholic Academy in Biddulph, Staffordshire, highlighted a number of concerns for several pupils in Key Stages 1 and 2, specifically with regards to literacy and numeracy. As the cornerstone of all learning, the primary school immediately approached Entrust to carry out targeted assessments and advise on strategies to support the progress of pupils across the curriculum.

Implementing targeted strategies

Over the course of the 2021/2022 academic year, we carried out a number of assessments to identify the primary areas of concern for each of their pupils. Detailed information was gathered on progress, data and concerns from the school, as well as background information from parents prior to the assessments. These, together with a focused assessment by Entrust’s learning support specialist teacher to further explore strengths and difficulties, resulted in a number of targeted recommendations for school-based support as well as potential strategies to support at home.

Relevant interventions for progress and change

Since our intervention, Our Lady of Grace Catholic Academy has been following Entrust’s graduated approach of ‘assess, plan, do and review’, putting our targeted recommendations in place and monitoring pupil progress.

As a result:

• Pupil progress and impact has improved.
• Reports and strategies have been shared with parents, with discussions now taking place on how to support at home following our assessment findings and recommendations.
• We’re helping Our Lady of Grace Catholic Academy ensure statutory compliance with SEN and curriculum regulations.
• We’re improving outcomes for all, providing support to teachers and school staff to enhance provision and improve attainment, while helping pupils overcome barriers to learning.