At HBN, we are proud to have Orry's Room that is devoted to pupils identified as having additional and higher level learning needs. We have three classes in Orry's. The classes have small numbers of pupils and are staffed by a teacher with additional Special Educational Support Officers. The provision is managed overall by our SEN Unit Manager, Mrs Duke. Our priority for all of our pupils in Orry's Room is to help them develop their communication skills and we therefore use a total communication approach within the unit through using Signalong, Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and a range of visual strategies.
As part of our individualised learning programs, we focus very much on how our young people process the world around them. Activities are tailored to each pupil's learning style, and so encourage participation in the breadth of the curriculum. Some pupils engage in the Early Years Foundation Stage and/or National Curriculum which is adapted to suit learning needs, whilst some of our pupils enjoy a teaching and learning approach which supports their sensory needs. We ensure opportunities to a wide variety of sensory experiences every day and our sensory room is a quiet space dedicated to stimulating, developing and relaxing the senses for pupils who need this.
Pupils who attend Orry's Room are very much part of the wider school community and join their peers for some lessons, playtimes, lunches and assemblies. We also love going on our weekly trips to consolidate topic work or to learn key life skills. Pupils who attend Orry's Room also benefit from a range of additional opportunities and experiences as part of their education such as weekly sports sessions at the NSC, swimming, horse riding and Bike4Life.
