Year 9
Learning Support at Gordonstoun begins with the screening of the whole of Year 9 when they arrive. This data, paired with information from previous schools, informs us of the individual’s need for help and therefore Learning Support lessons.
Parents should inform the school if a student has a history of Specific Learning Difficulties and should forward any assessments to the school.
Help is available for students with Specific Learning Difficulties. In Year 9 the emphasis is on touch-typing, literacy and numeracy. Some students may need help with organisational skills and/or the core subjects. Help can be offered across a range of subjects with the emphasis on English, Maths and Science. However, each student is looked at individually. It is the aim of the department to impart realistic expectations whilst building confidence and self esteem within the Gordonstoun environment.
Learning Support will take the place of either the core language or the “Second Language” option. If your son/daughter falls into this category then you will be fully involved in any decisions involving any impact on the curriculum he/she will follow.
A recent Educational Psychologist’s report will be required for any application for “special consideration” during examinations e.g. extra time, use of computers etc.. Parents should discuss the need for a report and any eventual recommendations, directly with the Head of Learning Support (plantc@gordonstoun.org.uk).
Guidelines for Public Examinations state that the exam conditions should reflect ”normal working practice” in class. We are unable to provide readers and scribes during everyday lessons and this may therefore jeopardise a student’s right to employ them in public examinations.
Years 10 and 11
Boys and girls who have been receiving help in Year 9 will usually continue with this as they enter Year 10 at the expense of either French in the core or one of the three optional subjects. This is also a time at which a few boys and girls, who have not previously been receiving some help, will be advised that it would be well worth considering this at the expense of the ninth GCSE. Parents will always be consulted in this situation.
Sixth Form
Learning Support is available for students with Specific Learning Difficulties such as dyslexia, and concessions such as extra time or use of a computer in examinations can be arranged where appropriate. Students who would like to receive some support should contact the Head of Learning Support so that lessons can be arranged.
Please note: there is an additional charge for Learning Support in Yrs 12 and 13.