Learning Support and EAL
Learning Support and SEN Provision
The Learning Support department at Loughborough Grammar School offers tailored assistance to boys with special educational needs (SEN) and specific learning differences. Our team consists of two full-time teachers, including the School’s SENDCo, and two part-time teaching assistants. The department is based in Friesland House, a secure and welcoming environment that is easily accessible to pupils.
We support boys who present with neurodiverse learning profiles and those identified through our comprehensive screening process, which includes both formal assessments and teacher referrals. Our primary aim is to guide boys and their families through the often complex landscape of external assessments and specialist interventions, delivered by qualified professionals and external agencies.
By identifying individual needs early, we enable classroom teachers to implement relevant teaching and learning strategies that support each pupil’s academic, emotional, and social development. Our approach fosters inclusion and promotes academic confidence across all subjects.
Most learning support is delivered in small groups or through one-to-one sessions. These take place before school or during lunchtimes for pupils in Years 6 to 11, and during study periods for those in Years 12 and 13.
A key element of our approach is helping pupils recognise that they are active participants in their own learning journey. We encourage boys to make the most of the expertise offered by both learning support staff and their academic teachers. In doing so, they give themselves the best opportunity to make meaningful progress.
Where appropriate, and in line with national regulations, the School offers a range of exam access arrangements. These may include additional time, the use of a laptop, or a prompter. A team of experienced invigilators supports this provision during GCSE and A level exams.
For all queries related to learning support or SEN, please contact Sarah Allsopp, SENDCo at Loughborough Grammar School.
English as a Second Language (EAL)
Loughborough Grammar School welcomes applications from pupils for whom English is a second language. The admissions process follows the standard application route, with additional assessments to evaluate English language proficiency.
Applicants are required to complete an online proficiency test and a written assessment, both administered by the Head of English as an Additional Language (EAL). Where possible, candidates will also have an informal interview either in person or remotely, via Skype. This may be conducted by the Head of EAL or the Director of Boarding.
These English language assessments are considered alongside the School’s usual entrance tests to ensure that pupils will be able to manage academic study in English. While every case is considered individually, the following minimum CEFR levels are typically required:
- A2 for entry into Years 7 and 8
- B1 for Year 9
- B2 for Year 10
- C1 for Lower Sixth (or a high B2 for pupils intending to study Maths or Sciences)
Pupils who are admitted and identified as needing support with English as a second language will receive specialist tuition to help them access the full curriculum. Where appropriate, pupils may also be prepared for recognised qualifications such as IELTS or Cambridge English exams. Examination fees are added to the end-of-term bill.
During the initial weeks, new EAL pupils undergo further assessment through classroom observation, formal testing, and informal feedback from subject teachers, tutors, and Housemasters. The Head of EAL may also carry out in-class shadowing to assess real-time learning needs. Based on this information, targeted support will be provided in small group or individual lessons as required.
