St. Margaret's School for Girls Aberdeen :: Support For Learning old

"The teacher’s support to every girl in St Margaret’s is something I have witnessed throughout my years here, but most prevalently, in the upper Senior School. I am eternally grateful to the teachers who go above and beyond to ensure that every question is answered, every resource is available, and every girl gets the support that they need. This support is surely a huge reason for our excellent examination results."

Head Girl, 2017-2018

Support for learning

Because it is recognised that any pupil may be challenged in her learning at some time during her school career, St Margaret’s offers additional support to help girls achieve their fullest academic potential. We are fortunate to have a range of staff qualified in inclusive practice who are dedicated to supporting our girls' learning.Their expertise provides holistic support throughout the school, identifying concerns early so that they can be dealt with quickly by the class or subject teacher. When learning barriers are persistent and long term, there are many ways in which Support for Learning staff can contribute to the success of each individual’s performance. These include:

Using diagnostic assessments to identify specific learning barriers
Consulting with staff and parents on different learning styles and liaising with outside agencies if needed
Advising on learning strategies both in class and at home
Delivering individual programmes to support pupils
Advising on examination provision for pupils with identified additional support needs

Paired Reading
Paired reading is a scheme run by the support for learning department. It embraces the core principles of Curriculum for Excellence. Senior girls become responsible citizens by volunteering their time to help juniors develop reading skills. The department provides training and the senior girls' contributions help juniors become successful learners. It is rewarding to see all the participants grow in confidence.

“I didn’t enjoy reading until I started paired reading; it’s so much fun now!”

- Joanna (4 Junior)

Further Levels of Support

St Margaret’s operates an open door approach to support and maintains good links with external support agencies. Pupils for whom English is an additional language may also receive extra tuition.

Further information, including advice about entitlements to additional support, is available from the following national websites:

www.educationscotland.gov.uk/supportinglearners
www.enquire.org.uk
www.sqa.org.uk