Is a mainstream provision for pupils with an EHC Plan with vision impairment as their primary need. Pupils are also those who have or are assessed to need NATSIP support categories A1or A2 (‘Support Plus’ or ‘Support’).
All pupils that have a place in The VI Department are fully included in the everyday life of the school. Students undertake a broad and balanced curriculum within the mainstream classroom environment.
All students have interventions included in their weekly timetables that form part of an ‘additional curriculum’ for students with vision impairment. These might include Braille literacy lessons, Habilitation lessons (mobility, orientation and independent living skills); use of assistive technology; developing touch-typing and word-processing skills and SEMH interventions.
In lessons, most students are supported by or given practical assistance from an ESA. For Braillists this is with an ESA who has reached (or is studying for) a recognised qualification in Braille.
All students have varying levels of specialist teaching of aspects of the additional curriculum from a QTVI (Qualified Teacher of Children with Vision Impairment) or TVI (Teacher of Children with Vision Impairment) and ongoing access to advice and support.
Admission is via the Local Authority.