Learning Support Department

Hurst Lodge Educational Support Department is run by teachers who are fully trained by the Dyslexia Institute in Staines.  Hurst Lodge has a "whole school" approach to the teaching of pupils with Learning Support Needs.

Children who are diagnosed as having Specific Learning Difficulties are given an individual 45 minute lesson, once or twice a week.  Children who require more intensive help can receive up to five lessons per week or more if specifically requested.  All dyslexic pupils are taught reading, spelling and writing and some pupils are taught Mathematics.   

A multi-sensory approach is employed in the department and pupils follow the; 

Kathleen Hickey Dyslexia programme  and the

Alpha to Omega programme, which was devised by Beve Hornsby and Frula Shear. 

In addition the students use the following:  

• "Cloze” Exercises Comprehension Exercises 

• Thinking Exercises

• Reading Books 

• Units of Sound 

• Games 

   

The pupils are taught through their strengths and have a ‘letter order’ which is very specific and very structured to ensure there are no gaps in their knowledge of sounds, letters etc.

All pupils have a reading pack, a spelling pack, a word pack and a pack of rules.  These must be practised daily so that they are ‘over-learned’ and become automatic.  Students learn about:

• Long and short vowels 

• Dictionary skills 

• Syllables

• Suffixes and prefixes 

• Punctuation 

• Parts of speech

• Handwriting skills 

• Essay writing

Each lesson consists of the following basics:

• Reading pack and Words 

• Dictation 

• Spelling Pack (Mnemonics)

• Alphabet Work 

• Dictionary Skills 

• Study Skills 

• Reading (books, plays, exercises)

There are computers in the department, which the pupils use.  Each pupil has a ‘word list book’ which is designed to encourage him/her to recognise and read words quickly.  Every effort is made to widen the vocabulary of each student.

We aim to complete the Hickey programme in the Junior School so that the pupils are able to cope with work in the Senior School with the help of Study Skills lessons.  However, provision is made for Senior pupils who have not finished the course to continue with lessons until they can be fully integrated with the peers.

Once settled at Hurst Lodge, children do well in the small classes.  The children who do not have learning support are used to those that do and encourage them to take part.  This positive backing from the other class members means that children take a full part in all lessons. The staff will be aware of your child’s problems, and allowances will be made.  Children are encouraged to present their work to the best of their ability.  Confidence will be boosted and nurtured by staff.  Praise is given liberally.   Pupils who have the ability to succeed academically, but who need individual help thrive at Hurst Lodge.