By Isle of Wight Observer
The IW Council has launched a new initiative to help children with speech, language, and communication challenges.
The collaborative programme, led by the council’s Virtual School, will introduce specialised progression tools, developed by Speech & Language UK, to all schools and early years settings across the Island.
Aimed at children aged 3 to 18, the tools help teachers to identify speech and language challenges early, often before they affect learning, track progress, and implement targeted interventions.
Training for teachers and other education professionals will take place on Wednesday, June 18. All Island schools, nurseries, and post-16 settings will be invited to participate and provided with the tools.
Cllr Claire Critchison, cabinet member for children’s services and education, explained: “By equipping our schools and early years settings with the right tools and training, we’re not only supporting our most vulnerable children, such as those in care, but also strengthening the overall quality of education across the Island.
“This tailored support can pave the way for meaningful learning opportunities and brighter futures.”
The Virtual School, which supports children who have been in care, will require its use in Personal Education Plans (PEPs), ensuring no child’s needs are overlooked.
NHS teams have also expressed support for the new and collaborative approach.
Parents and educators can access further information, resources and free advice from Speech and Language UK by visiting iw.observer/s-and-l-help.