Fernways School

Occupational therapy supports children in developing the essential skills they need to become functional, independent adults. 

These include:

• Fine Motor Skills – Developing control of small muscles in the hands and fingers, supporting tasks like writing, using cutlery, and dressing.
• Gross Motor Skills – Enhancing coordination and strength in large muscle groups for activities such as walking, climbing, and participating in sports.
• Sensory Regulation – Helping children manage and respond appropriately to sensory input, improving focus, emotional control, and comfort in different environments.
• Cognitive Skills – Supporting attention, memory, problem-solving, and planning—crucial for learning and daily decision-making.
• Self-Care Skills – Encouraging independence in daily routines such as dressing, toileting, brushing teeth, and eating.
• Social Skills – Building the ability to communicate, cooperate, and interact appropriately with others in a range of settings.

These areas of development form the foundation for functional independence and long-term success into adulthood.

Speech and Language Therapists at Fernways aim to support pupils in overcoming barriers linked to speech, language, and communication needs so that they can access learning and thrive both academically and socially.

These include:

• Assessment - Conducting assessments to identify pupils’ speech, language, and communication profiles
• Interventions: Delivering individual or group therapy sessions, support in the classroom and where appropriate creating personalised programmes that help pupils develop their communication and interaction skills.
• Embedding Strategies in the Classroom: Equipping teachers, teaching assistants, and pastoral staff with strategies to integrate speech and language support into everyday lessons and routines.
• Supporting Social and Emotional Development: Helping pupils to build confidence in expressing themselves, improving peer interactions, and reducing frustration linked to communication difficulties.
• Skills for Life - Working with parents, carers and school staff to assist in developing functional communication skills when out and about in the community.

At Fernways School, a guidance counsellor supports pupils by helping them manage both their personal and academic development. They provide a safe, confidential space where pupils can talk through challenges such as friendships, emotional regulation, family concerns, or worries about schoolwork. Sessions are delivered in a safe, supportive environment where pupils can explore their feelings and learn practical strategies.

At Fernways School, an ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) helps pupils develop the social and emotional skills they need to thrive in school and beyond. Working closely with the pastoral team and teachers, the ELSA provides targeted support in areas such as managing emotions, building friendships, developing self-esteem, coping with loss or change, and improving social skills. Sessions are delivered in a safe, supportive environment where pupils can explore their feelings and learn practical strategies. The ELSA’s role is to empower pupils to understand themselves better, build resilience, and apply these skills in their everyday school life.