Ensure the Top Tips for an inclusive learning environment are in place as part of Ordinarily Available Provision. 

Staff have an awareness of Speech Language and Communication and how this presents in the classroom, free training ‘An Introduction to Speech Language and Communication’ is available from The Communication Trust.

Identification of designated Communication Champions or Leads.

Ensure early identification of communication needs using a checklist such as the free Universally Speaking Age 11- 18 checklist, available from The Communication Trust (see assessments section). Alongside, increased observations, use of the curriculum and discussions with young person and Parents/Carers.

Use free environmental checklists to evaluate whether the space supports communication and interaction, such as the free Communication Friendly Environment Checklist from the Communication Trust.

Display the ‘Whats Typical Talk at Secondary’ – Talking Point poster.

Access online free course ‘Teen Talk’ by the University of Sheffield.

Raising Awareness of Developmental Language Disorder gives free information and fact sheets about Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), as well as a range of helpful resources.

Information and strategies available through ‘I’ve still got it, haven’t I – Developmental Language Disorder in Older Children and Adolescents’.

Information guide for teachers and free webinars about Developmental Language Disorder are available from ICAN.

Have set tasks and activities throughout the day/week which focus on supporting spoken language use and understanding, for example, ‘No Pens Day Wednesdays’.

Mixed ability seating is in place for all young people, to provide good modelling of language among other skills.

Other useful and free resources are available from the following websites:

• Additional Needs Team’s Resource list to support young people with Speech, Language and Communication (SLCN)

  • Bury Speech and Language Therapy website;

  • The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists;

  • Leeds Speech and Language Therapy Toolkit;

  • Hereford and Worcestershire’s   Children's Speech and Language Therapy Resource;

  • Rhodes to Language - Integrated Treatment Services.

Further resources

Afasic produces free downloads with vital information for parents and professionals about talking, understanding language and getting the right help. They offer free downloads, free parent support days and workshops, and useful links to mobile apps and other support.