Speech and Language Therapy
Empowering children to find their voice and be heard
At Craighalbert, our Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) team supports children and young people with complex communication, learning, health, and care needs to find their voice and communicate the things that they want to say. This enables them to build meaningful relationships and fully participate in their learning in school and beyond.
We take time to get to know each child, understanding how their body moves and what type of access works best for them. For some children, developing a way to control their communication system, whether through eye gaze, switches, or another method, is a key part of our work. Many of our learners use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), which includes tools like communication books or apps on devices. These tools are carefully tailored to meet each child’s profile of needs.
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At our centre, we have a strong AAC culture that ensures communication is integrated into all aspects of learning and interaction. We use PODD (Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display) books throughout the school, creating an aided language environments with staff modelling language through AAC and supporting communication in real-life situations. We also provide ongoing coaching and training for communication partners so that AAC use is fully embedded across the day.
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In addition to supporting communication, our SLT team also plays an important role in assessing and managing eating, drinking and swallowing needs. We work to ensure that children are safe, comfortable, and confident during mealtimes, offering personalised strategies and support when swallowing difficulties are present.
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We collaborate closely with families and school staff to ensure that every child has the right tools to thrive, whether that’s connecting with friends, participating in activities, or finding their voice in the classroom. Our goal is to empower each child to engage, grow in confidence, and become an active, confident communicator.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy aspires to ensure that all the children we work with led full and happy lives.
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We focus on helping them participate in meaningful activities (occupations) they need and want to do at school, at home and at play.
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We work with children and young people, families, school staff, and the wider team to help overcome challenges relating to daily life activities.
Supporting your Child's Voice
At Craighalbert, we believe every child has something to say. Our team uses Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to help children communicate in ways that work best for them, whether by replacing or supporting speech.
Understanding Your Child’s Unique Communication Needs
We begin by getting to know your child – how they move, respond, and interact – and understanding their individual language, sensory and motor needs. From there, we select the AAC tools that fit best, like Pragmatically Organised Dynamic Display (PODD) books, which provide consistent, accessible ways for your child to express themselves every day.
Practical Tools for Real Communication
Your child might benefit from:
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A personalised PODD book tailored to their access, language level and visual needs
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Use of both paper-based and electronic AAC systems to suit their learning style
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Full communication models where staff use AAC in all interactions – showing children how to initiate and join conversations
We use these tools across daily routines to ensure your child sees communication as meaningful and achievable.
Creating a Culture of Communication
Our whole team - including teachers, therapists and support staff – use AAC with each other and with every child throughout the day. This creates a rich communication environment where AAC is valued and expected. We look for meaning in every child’s actions and support them to develop intentional communication, even when movement is challenging.
AAC is not “one-size-fits-all.” We’re committed to finding and using robust, individualised tools that work best for your child, giving them a voice and helping them to take part in learning, play, and relationships with confidence.
Building your child's literacy
At Craighalbert, we believe literacy is for every child, including those who use AAC or have complex needs. Our approach helps children learn to read, write, and spell so they can express exactly what they want, when they want, to whoever they choose.
Understanding Your Child’s Unique Literacy Journey
We know that children who use AAC face extra barriers to learning literacy, from physical challenges to low expectations. We also know that with the right support, every child can make meaningful progress. That’s why we adapt and personalise literacy instruction to match your child’s needs, giving them access to the same essential skills as their peers.
Practical Approaches That Make Literacy Meaningful
Your child might take part in:
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Shared reading where the focus is on interaction and meaning-making – not just listening, but leading the conversation
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Predictable chart writing, a fun group writing activity that helps every child take part in creating written messages
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Independent writing using alternative pencils to support children with motor challenges to write in their own way
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Self-selected reading where your child explores books at their own level and interest
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Letters and sounds instruction to build phonological awareness and help children connect letters to their sounds
These experiences help your child develop the building blocks of reading and writing in ways that are accessible, engaging, and tailored to them.
Creating a Literacy-Rich Environment
We are committed to embedding literacy across your child’s day – in learning, play, and communication. Our team works together to create genuine opportunities for reading and writing, and we seek out global expertise to ensure we are using the most up-to-date, evidence-based approaches for children with complex needs.
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We see literacy not just as an educational goal, but as a life skill that opens doors and empowers your child to be an autonomous communicator.
Enquire about a placement
If you feel Craighalbert is the right place to support both your child and you, click the link below to submit an enquiry.
or you can call us on 01236 456 100 or email us admin@craighalbert.org.uk