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The Covid-19 Pandemic had an impact on pupil progress, most notably in the summer term 19-20, during which fewer pupils achieved their end of year targets compared to 18-19 and 20-21 (see image 1).
Discussions with teachers and the SLT in Pupil Progress Interviews highlighted common issues were to blame for lack of achievement during summer 19-20:
-parental capacity to deliver home-learning activities
-pupil-specific issues, such as health or attendance
-ability to accurately assess pupils
We can see from Image 1, however, that catch up was on track for summer 20-21 and conclude that intervention, catch-up sessions and a consistent return to school for many was having a positive effect, however, there is still some room for improvement.
We concluded, through assessment discussion, that many of our students may need assistance to learn and catch up through the application of an enriched sensory regulation offer. The application of this offer will help children cope with the difficulties they have processing sensory input which may have been compounded by pandemic absence.
The School-Led Tutoring system has provided an opportunity to fund this strategy. School-Led Tutoring is part of the National Tutoring Programme (NTP) in 2021/22. Eligible state-funded schools receive a ring-fenced grant to source their own tutoring provision for disadvantaged and vulnerable pupils who have missed the most education due to COVID-19. Tutoring is defined as a teacher, teaching assistant or other professional educator providing intensive and individualised academic support to pupils in either one-to-one or small group arrangements.
Our plan
Intent:
Our Hypothesis is that Sensory Integration programmes will ensure our students are happy and ready to work, closing the sensory regulation gap caused by Covid absence and assisting further catch up and learning success.
Implementation:
We are using School-Led Tutoring funding to employ a Sensory Occupational Therapist (OT) to work with identified children.
Impact will be evidenced through school assessment processes and case study outcomes. OT baseline assessments will provide a starting point for scrutiny.
Impact will also be assessed through dedicated Education Endowment Fund research.