The following four statements are intrinsic to the communication philosophy at Hamilton Lodge School:

- developing a full language is a basic human right and the basis for learning

- Hamilton Lodge School takes a child centred approach to communication

- the school exists to provide access to the curriculum for our pupils

- the grammar of BSL is fully accessible to our pupils, aspects of English are not necessarily

The child centred communication approach at Hamilton Lodge School supports the development of both British Sign Language and English. The structure and grammar of both languages is taught. All pupils have the opportunity to take CACDP Level 1 and 2 in BSL as part of the Deaf Studies curriculum. Within English, particular emphasis is placed upon written language skills with many of the approaches of teaching English as an Additional Language being used within the classroom.

The Speech and Language Therapist (SALT) works within both departments of the school (Primary and Secondary). The SALT follows an integrated approach to working with teaching staff and pupils and the role od the SALT is one of monitoring pupils and advising staff on communication approaches in addition to working with pupils directly as and when this is considered appropriate. Direct SALT work occurs in groups during English lessons and as short individual sessions.

We have a contract for support from Brighton & Hove's Sensory Support Service and an educational audiologist spends one day a week in school. The educational audiologist and speech and language therapist work together with class teachers to ensure that individual use of hearing and speech are encouraged where appropriate.

To download a copy of our communication booklet click here

 Assessment:

When pupils enter Hamilton Lodge School irrespective of year of entry, we gather our own information to provide an Entry Baseline Assessment. It is recognised that teachers, teaching assistants (TAs), the Speech and Language Therapist, Deaf Studies Tutor, the Learning Support Co-ordinator, Educational Psychologist, Educational Audiologist, Care staff and parents/carers can all make an important contribution to this process. This information is passed on to all members of staff.