Communication and Interaction at Christ Church

What is Communication and Interaction? 💬

Communication and interaction is one of the four main areas of need outlined in the SEND Code of Practice. It focuses on how a child understands language, expresses themselves and connects with others.

Every child communicates in their own unique way. Some children face barriers in making themselves understood or understanding the world around them. This can include:

• Speech and Language differences: Difficulties with pronouncing words, understanding spoken language, or finding the right words to speak (such as a speech delay or disorder).

• Social Communication differences: Challenges with understanding social rules, body language, facial expressions, or managing social situations. This is often a core part of profiles like Autism or Auditory Processing Disorder.

Our Approach: Connection, Regulation and Voice 🗣️

Guided by our trauma-responsive approach, we know that "behaviour is communication." If a child is struggling to express their thoughts or feelings, they may become frustrated, anxious, or overwhelmed.

We prioritise relational safety first. Our goal is to ensure every child feels safe, heard and understood, using their preferred method of communication. We don't try to change who they are; instead, we adapt our environment and communication styles to meet them where they are.

How We Support Your Child in the Classroom 👥

We remove communication barriers through three main steps:

1. Communication-Friendly Classrooms (Universal Support)

We make sure our daily learning spaces are rich in visual and predictable support so that no child feels lost or left out. Teachers adapt their communication by using:

• Visual timetables, symbols and "now and next" boards to make the day predictable.

• Clear, slowed-down language, allowing extra time for processing.

• Social scripts and structured playground support to help navigate friendships safely and happily.

2. Targeted Strategies and Interventions (Targeted Support)

For children who need a little extra help to find their voice or build social confidence, we run small, nurturing groups. These might focus on language building, understanding emotions, or developing collaborative play skills in a safe, low-stress environment.

3. Working with Specialists (Expert Support)

We follow the 'Assess-Plan-Do-Review' cycle to ensure our support evolves with your child. At Christ Church, we work closely with our dedicated speech and language provider, Liverpool Speech Therapy, alongside NHS services. Together with you, we use their expert assessments to build precise, individualized School Support Plans.

Our Promise: Communication is a two-way street. We pledge to adapt our words, our classrooms and our pacing so that your child always has a voice, feels completely included, and thrives as a valued member of our school family.