Specialist Unit
Speech and Language Enhanced Provision (SLEP)
Our Speech and Language Enhanced Provision (SLEP) is a specialist part of the Learning Support department. It is designed for students who can access a mainstream secondary curriculum but need tailored support for significant speech and/or language needs.
What makes our provision unique is our blended model: students receive individualised, expert support alongside full access to the academic and social opportunities of mainstream school life.
What We Offer
We are a county-wide provision for up to 20 secondary-aged students, offering a carefully balanced combination of:
- Specialist support from experienced teachers and qualified speech and language therapists
- Personalised learning pathways, designed to meet each student’s unique needs
- A tailored blend of in-class support and targeted withdrawal sessions for individual or small group work
- Full participation in the mainstream curriculum, school events, enrichment, and social activities
- A strong focus on building communication confidence, independence, and resilience
Who We Support
Our provision is designed for students with a diagnosed speech and/or language difficulty who may face challenges such as:
- Understanding and remembering verbal instructions
- Expressing thoughts clearly and finding the right words
- Acquiring and using vocabulary effectively
- Holding a conversation or staying on topic
- Pronouncing words or sequencing sounds
- Associated difficulties with literacy and learning
What Our Students Say
It’s really hard because you know the word but can’t get it out.
It’s like a storm in my head.
I sometimes don’t know what they are trying to say.
My ears have radar to somebody else.
Belonging, Participation, and Progress
Every student in SLEP is a full member of the school community.
They:
- Are part of a mainstream tutor group
- Attend mainstream lessons alongside peers
- Take part in clubs, trips, and wider school life
- Receive additional support where needed — discreetly, flexibly, and always with respect for their individuality.
Our aim is to nurture both academic success and social confidence, helping students to feel known, valued, and included.
Admissions: How to Apply
To be considered for a place in the provision, a student must:
- Have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), where speech, language, and communication needs are the primary area of need
- Ideally have an up-to-date report from a Speech and Language Therapist
Admissions are managed by the Local Authority. We strongly encourage families to begin the process in Year 5 to allow time for consultation and planning.
For more information or to arrange a visit, please contact the school’s SENCO or Learning Support Department.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is the Speech and Language Enhanced Provision (SLEP) for?
The provision is for students with an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) where the primary need is a speech, language, and communication difficulty (SLCN). These students are typically able to follow a mainstream curriculum but need extra support to succeed.
How is this different from general SEND support in school?
SLEP is a specialist county provision offering more intensive and targeted support than standard SEND provision. Students receive regular input from a qualified Speech and Language Therapist as well as a specialist teacher, with programmes tailored to individual needs.
Will my child be taught separately from the rest of the school?
No. Students in SLEP are fully included in mainstream lessons, tutor groups, and wider school life. They also access specialist sessions (either one-to-one or in small groups) at times that complement their timetable. We call this our blended approach — the best of both worlds.
What kind of support will my child receive?
Support is highly personalised and may include: in-class support from specialist staff, targeted withdrawal sessions focusing on language, communication, or social skills, regular reviews to track progress and adjust strategies, and collaborative planning between teachers, therapists, and families.
How do you help students with social communication or confidence?
Our work goes beyond the classroom. We support students with structured opportunities to practise communication in real contexts, social communication groups, pastoral support and mentoring, and encouraging participation in school activities and friendships.
Will my child be expected to sit GCSEs and follow the national curriculum?
Yes. Students are expected to follow the mainstream curriculum, with appropriate adaptations and support to help them succeed. In some cases, we may tailor subject choices or pathways based on the individual’s needs.
How does the admission process work?
Admissions are handled by the Local Authority. A student must have an EHCP with SLCN as the primary need. If you are considering this provision for your child, it’s important to begin discussions with your current school and Local Authority in Year 5, so the assessment and consultation process can be completed in time.
Can I visit the provision before applying?
Absolutely. We encourage parents and carers to visit, meet the team, and see how the provision works in practice. Please contact the school’s SENCO or Learning Support Department to arrange this.
What is the long-term goal for students in the SLEP?
Our aim is for every student to become a confident communicator, access and succeed in mainstream education, feel a full sense of belonging in the school community, and build independence, resilience, and self-advocacy skills for life beyond school.
