September 2023 saw the official opening of our Positive Impact Centre which houses our intervention programmes for pupils who have additional educational needs. This comprises of six key areas:

 

1. The Special Educational Needs Department;

2. A co-ordinated, structured programme of literacy and numeracy support;

3. A systematic support programme for all Newcomer pupils;

4. A Social Communication Class (SCC) designed specifically to provide Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools for children with a Statement of Educational Need for Autism;

5. A structured Nurture provision for pupils with social, behavioural and/or emotional well-being needs;

6. A subject extension programme for Gifted and Talented pupils who display particular flair and high levels of aptitude.

 

‘The PIC’, as it is affectionately known, is a safe space where pupils with these additional needs are academically and pastorally supported and challenged to become the best possible versions of themselves. Our expert, trained staff lead all aspects of ‘The PIC’ to ensure that there is a ‘joined-up’ approach and wraparound care for children, as well as strong liaison with relevant subject teachers and pastoral staff in the mainstream setting.

 

Lurgan Junior High School has an excellent reputation for meeting the needs of pupils with a wide variety of Special Educational Needs. The SENCOs (Special Educational Needs Coordinators), along with Classroom Assistants, ensure provision is made for pupils whether it is through arranging exam concessions, or one-to-one support. Our SEN department liaises with feeder primary schools to make provision for pupils with SEN who are transferring from Key Stage 2, and also with the senior schools to ensure a smooth transition to Key Stage 4.

 

Pupils on the SEN register have IEPs (Individual Educational Plans) with individual targets that are reviewed twice a year. Pupils not on the register, but requiring additional support, are also identified through standardised testing, teacher observations and parental concerns. We are very fortunate at Lurgan Junior High School to have a designated SENCo for each of our three year groups. This SENCo will follow the year group from Year 8 through to Year 10.