Academic Studies at Millfield
Educational Support
Welcome to the Learning Support Centre (LSC)
All of our pupils are individuals with different learning styles. Some have Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) and need the additional support that the Learning Support Centre is able to offer. Pupils from Year 9 up to Year 13 are supported by one of the ten experienced and well qualified Teachers.
Some children arrive at Millfield with difficulties such as dyslexia or dyspraxia that have already been diagnosed. Other children are identified through our screening processes and subsequently assessed by a Specialist SpLD Teacher or Education Psychologist. We aim to ensure that pupils are identified as early as possible to ensure that the most appropriate support is put in place in order for them to develop appropriate learning strategies that will allow them to achieve their true potential.
The LSC is an independent department that works across all curriculums. We also have a dedicated team of teachers who deliver the GCSE English and English Literature courses within the department.
Once pupils have been identified as having a learning difficulty we produce Individual Education Plans (IEPs). These are delivered in small groups according to a pupil's needs. We use a wide variety of resources such as software programmes, structured phonics, reading or spelling schemes and games. These are constantly being evaluated and updated.
Building self-esteem, easing the journey
Principally the LSC aims to encourage pupils, build their self confidence and set them on the road to independent learning. Working closely with pupils right across the school, it maintains close links with both Millfield Preparatory School and other feeder schools to smooth the path for pupils moving across to the senior school.
Mutual respect and understanding
By developing a rapport with pupils we are able to consistently realise the high expectations of the LSC. Teaching staff are constantly in touch with the latest research, training, techniques and resources. Their focus is simple, to maximise opportunities and success for pupils.
Learning Support Centre Programme / pdf (612kb)
Sixth Form and the LSC
Post GCSE we continue to support pupils through individual and small group tutorials. These tend to focus on the development of their study skills and exam and revision techniques.
At the beginning of Lower Sixth all of our students with a Specific Learning Difficulty, such as Dyslexia, will begin the term with a lecture programme. Students will attend weekly and receive information and advice on topics such as study skills and an introduction to the assistive computer packages, which are available in school for their use, to aid independent study; students will have access to computer packages such as VRT (Voice Recognition Technology), Read and Write Gold and Inspiration Mindmapping software.
Many of our students are able to work fairly independently and may only need occasional access to the Learning Support Centre (LSC) to seek guidance and support. This may include help with anything from planning and structuring an essay, to help with revision strategies or examination technique prior to exams. This support is available at our lunchtime workshops, which are staffed by both LSC Study Support and LSC English staff. These students will be monitored by the LSC and the Group Tutors to ensure that the they are receiving adequate support to meet their needs.
For students who need to have a greater level of assistance, we offer timetabled LSC sessions that take place in the library during the students' Private Study sessions. Students register with an LSC tutor and are expected to then discuss the week's work and any ensuing deadlines. Again, as required, the student will either work with one of our LSC tutors or subject specialists in the Library classroom or work independently, within the library, knowing we are on hand to help as necessary.
Finally, for the students who had a considerable level of support throughout their GCSEs and for those with more complex difficulties, we have timetabled Study Support sessions within the LSC. These sessions will be taught by either an LSC tutor or a subject specialist, as appropriate. Students will be placed into small groups, with other students with similar difficulties who are following a similar curriculum. These sessions will take place in one or more of their Private Study sessions on their timetables.
Sixth Form Study Support Programme / pdf (581kb)
Our Learning Support Centre staff:
Head of Department: Mrs Jacqui Clarke
Mrs Louise Cella
Mrs Sarah Coates
Murray Cole-Edwardes
Miss Elizabeth Dando
Ms Kelly Lindsell
Robert Mylne
Mrs Hannah Ryan
Mrs Joanne Szymkow
