Learning Support

Learning support is available on an individual basis for any pupil requiring it, including those with mild specific learning difficulties (typically dyslexia and dyspraxia). There is a specially designated room that is centrally located in the main building where pupils have access to a networked computer and the Internet. Tuition may be given in all aspects of literacy, numeracy (Mathematics to GCSE), EAL (English as an Additional Language), study skills, essay writing, time management and personal organisation.

Weekly lessons can be provided consisting of one 35-minute or one 30-minute session, depending on individual requirements. This can be adjusted according to individual need: in exceptional circumstances pupils can have two weekly sessions or have a shared lesson, providing that the pupils’ educational needs are the same.

Sessions usually take place outside normal lesson times, unless the pupil has study periods. They will often take place first thing in the morning at 8 am, with permission from the Housemaster/mistress to miss Chapel or call-over; after lunch; during designated activity times; at 4.30 pm on a Monday; or after sport at 4.45 pm.  If a pupil does have study periods, every effort will be made to fit the lesson into one of those periods in the first instance.

All IVth Form pupils are screened on entry to the School during Weeks 1 and 2 of the Michaelmas term.  This takes place during a timetabled English lesson by arrangement with the Head of English. The screening consists of a standardised spelling test (WRAT 4, 2006) and a standardised reading test (Revised Kirklees version of the Vernon-Warden Reading Test, 1995). Pupils also do a piece of free writing in controlled conditions. The scripts are marked by the individual teachers and are screened for dyslexia using a checklist of indicators provided by the Learning Support Coordinator.

Basic screening of any pupil with a suspected learning difficulty can be undertaken using standardised tests and dyslexia screening software (Lucid Rapid, LASS). In addition, we have some numeracy screening software (Dyscalculia Screener by Brian Butterworth). Pupils are referred to a qualified educational psychologist if necessary. Assessments in respect of access arrangements for external examinations can also be undertaken and the report prepared. Cranleigh has long-standing links with the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre, Farnham.

Fees are set by the Governors and are charged at an hourly rate of £40.00 per hour (the rate from September 2010). Parents are sent a letter at the outset outlining the likely charges per term. There are no charges if the teacher has to cancel a lesson, if the pupil is ill and the teacher has 24 hours’ notice or if the pupil is out on an official school trip or match. Parents are charged if pupils forget to attend or if they do not excuse themselves from the lesson.  There is a charge of £96.00 for an examinations acccess arrangements assessment. 

We strongly believe that pupils are disadvantaged if they do not develop the skills of handwriting, and, while encouraging the development of ICT skills throughout the curriculum, we expect all pupils to continue to write by hand as their normal way of working throughout the senior school and in examinations. In exceptional cases a pupil may be allowed to use a laptop in lessons and internal exams if there is evidence of a learning difficulty or disability affecting writing fluency or legibility to a significant degree. In such cases, where a pupil has come to rely on a laptop as their 'normal way of working' then they will be allowed to use one in external examinations, under controlled conditions.
 
The Learning Support Coordinator is available for consultation at all Parents’ Meetings throughout the academic year and can be contacted Monday to Friday by email or telephone.