Therapy Provision 

The Therapy Department is an integral part of the programme offered at St Dominic’s School and there are extensive resources aimed at meeting the therapy needs of the students. The Therapy Suite includes both small and large work areas which can be utilised for individual or small group work. There is a fully equipped area for Physiotherapy, Sensory Integration and Occupational Therapy.

The department is staffed by a team of qualified therapists and therapy assistants who are trained to carry out therapy programmes under the guidance of the therapists. All students are fully assessed during their first term at school by each therapy area, regardless of statemented needs. Following assessment, a report is prepared and circulated to relevant staff. There is close liaison with teaching staff and joint planning and delivery occurs in some curriculum areas.

Students are reassessed annually to provide a record of progress. Assessment may involve the use of formal test material or relate to findings resulting from informal observation and progress during therapy sessions.

After initial assessment, time is allocated according to the child’s needs. Therapy may be class-based, in small groups, or on an individual basis. On some occasions, therapists support specific students within lessons. Close liaison with parents is a vital part of the provision. Therapists contribute to a child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) and students receiving therapy are re-assessed and reports provided on an annual basis, prior to Annual Review.

The 24-hour curriculum is also an essential part of life at St Dominic’s School for some students and therapists work with the care staff to meet the needs of the students. The therapists are involved in the ongoing development of the school, providing training for teachers, support and care staff.