Secondary Support Resource (SSR)

The Secondary Support Resource started in Irvine Royal Academy in 2021 with the aim of assisting the transition of P7 pupils with additional support needs into S1 mainstream classes where appropriate/applicable. After a successful pilot year, all S1 pupils transitioned into mainstream classes following their SQA curriculum. The pupils still receive support in class and in the SSR base to compliment the transition process.

The resource has grown and offers support for neurodiverse young people in a calm, nurturing environment where pupils feel safe, secure and are able to express their feelings. Individualised plans are created for each pupil with appropriate supports put in place to help them to attain and achieve at their own pace.

The resource offers 3 classrooms as a base for learning, wellbeing and a supported structure for our S1, S2, S3 and S4 pupils. The attendance in these classrooms is either permanent or timetabled based on the needs and pre-agreed plan for the pupil.

We work within the SHANARRI indicators and Nurture Principles. Getting It Right For Every Child is the SSR’s priority and can be reflected in the bespoke and flexible timetables for each pupil. In addition, often pupils personal interests and hobbies are included as part of the learning and engagement in the classroom.

Initially, Numeracy, Literacy and HWB are the targeted areas in the SSR with visits to Technical, PE and Music. Throughout the year and as confidence grows, some young people are introduced to other subject areas in the wider school and gradually integrated into classes with one-to-one support where appropriate/applicable. This support remains until they feel able to attend and participate in classes without support.

Being involved in the life of the school is important for all in the SSR. Litter picking and gardening is encouraged on a weekly basis, and hours worked go

towards achieving a Saltire Award. Our young people take part in school themed days such as Purple Friday, LGBTQ+ events, STEM challenges and Maths/Literacy challenges.

We encourage our young people to be involved in local community events, such as taking part in ASN multisport events organised by the ASCPO Team. This session we’ve had the opportunity to attend weekly sessions at the Portal, two visits to Bouncestation and a day of outdoor activities at Castle Semple. This is thanks to the ASCPO team who work closely with the SSR to provide a variety of experiences for our young people.

As part of our ongoing animation projects we attend Into Film events. The UK-wide programme helps educators bring learning to life for 5-19 year olds by inspiring them to watch, make and understand film in a new and creative way. This includes learning resources which encourage and utilize literacy skills and creative writing to review and analyse the media they have viewed, read or listened to.

A variety of external agencies support our young people, such as Social Work, Educational Psychology and the Visual Impairment team. Our young people can access internal supports such as the Area Inclusion support, School Counsellor, MCR Pathways, Campus Police Officer, Pastoral Support and Careers Advisor.

Young people are referred to the SSR through the North Ayrshire Inclusion Group, who meet on a regular basis. A transition plan will be agreed before young people join the SSR to meet with staff and to familiarise themselves with the layout of the classrooms. Building positive relationships and getting to know the young person is a priority before completing an Individualised Learning Plan.

A communication diary is completed and sent home each day to keep parents informed and foster positive home/school links. Parents are welcomed in to the SSR regularly for Open Days and to discuss learning and progress to date.

Staff

R Gibson (Teacher)

F Macfarlane (Teacher)

T Lindsay (Classroom Assistant)

B Mackintosh (Classroom Assistant)

Newsletters

To learn more about our achievements to date, please have a look at our newsletters attached:

SSR Newsletter - August 2021

SSR Newsletter - September 2021

SSR Newsletter - October/November 2021

Photos