An education for every child
Gifted and talented students
St Alban’s Academy runs a special programme for gifted and talented students to allow them to progress more quickly. The curriculum caters for this and there is a programme of additional out of hours learning activities provided for these and other interested students. These students also access a range of learning opportunities provided by the Central Collegiate Academy.
Special Educational Needs
St Albans Academy is committed to recognising every child’s individual needs and gives students every opportunity to achieve their potential. We place a great deal of importance on ensuring that students with special educational needs are identified, properly assessed and well supported, following best practice.
Students with Special Educational Needs are supported in the classroom through strategies, which include targeted programmes, differentiated activities and materials, small teaching groups, classroom assistants and other support staff and close liaison with external support services. Students who have a Statement of Special Educational Needs are admitted to the school in accordance with Local Authority guidelines to ensure that they are able to receive the appropriate provision.
English as an Additional Language
The academy is committed to supporting students whose first language is not English. Such students receiving extra support until they reach expected standards in English including personal tuition from specialised staff in English as an Additional Language, as well as support in the classroom. Careful assessment and a combination of small induction classes and one-to-one teaching, enables all students to have full access to the academy’s learning opportunities. Most students who join us with English as an additional language sit GCSE exams with their peers and many former students have gone on to University, gaining first and higher degrees.
Students with Disabilities
The academy conforms to the provisions of the Special Needs and Disabilities Act. There is wheelchair access to all the main buildings and suitable toilet facilities. There are arrangements to support students with known medical conditions. The academy Access Plan focuses on continued development of both the facilities in the building and the skills of the staff. The academy works with the Specialist Support Services who support individual children and advise the school on inclusion.
