Learning Support Centre

Purpose

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Our Learning Support Centre (SPIM) is a nurturing and inclusive environment where every pupil is valued, respected, and supported as an individual. We are committed to teaching the whole person — fostering emotional regulation, resilience, and life skills alongside academic growth. Through personalised support and aligned strategies, we create a safe space where pupils can thrive, feel understood, and access the best possible learning opportunities. 

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The overall aim of the Learning Support Centre (LSC) is to meet the wide-ranging needs of pupils who hold a Statement of Special Educational Needs by facilitating and encouraging each pupil to realise their optimum level of achievement within the areas of learning as outlined in the Northern Ireland Curriculum. The curriculum the pupils follow is the same as their mainstream peers but is tailored to meet individual pupil needs and abilities. Staff endeavour to ensure learning is both relevant and motivating. 

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Furthermore, the LSC aims to provide a caring, structured and stimulating learning environment where pupils are nurtured to help them overcome any emotional, social and educational difficulties and to develop their true potential as contributing members of society. In order to enhance this, we encourage an active and supportive partnership with parents and the local community. Our intention is that by the time our pupils leave at 16, they will be equipped, as far as possible, for the world of work. 

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A key focus for our pupils is to help them acquire values and skills that they can rely upon throughout their lives and in doing so, have the best chance to lead fulfilling lives as individuals and citizens in their communities.

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Description

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The LSC comprises of three classes and caters for pupils aged 11–16 with wide-ranging special educational needs. The core LSC team consists of three full-time teachers and three full-time classroom assistants, each trained and experienced in teaching pupils with special educational needs. The LSC is an integral part of the main school and as such are taught as a discrete class, by mainstream specialist teachers, for Music, P.E., Technology and Design, Home Economics, Science, Modern Languages and Art.  LSC Years 8-12 attend weekly swimming lessons at a local leisure centre where they have gained key life skills. In Years 11 and 12, pupils are offered the opportunity to undertake accreditation in subject areas ranging from Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy, Occupational Studies in catering and joinery and King’s Trust qualifications in Personal Development and Employability.

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Highlights/Special Events

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All pupils can participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities, for the enrichment of the whole person. These activities include Football, Art Club, Scripture Union, Badminton, Table Tennis and Eco Club. Also, all pupils have the opportunity to go on educational and social trips such as visits to the cinema, the summer trip to Europe and the annual School Ski Trip to Italy. As an integral part of the wider school community, the pupils in the LSC may also be selected as School Prefects. Year 12 pupils are also involved in the ‘Leavers Party’ held in June whereby all pupils due to transfer have a fun-day, filled with enjoyable activities, celebrating and reflecting on their time in Clounagh JHS.

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