Communication Approaches

Every child at Warmley Park communicates — the key is finding the right way to listen and respond. We use a wide range of specialist approaches to ensure every pupil can express themselves, connect with others, and engage with learning.

Our Approach

Many of our pupils are pre-verbal or non-verbal, and all have complex communication needs. At Warmley Park, we take a Total Communication approach — combining every available means of communication to ensure that no child is left without a voice. Our commissioned Speech and Language Therapists work directly in school, ensuring that provisions specified on each pupil’s EHCP are delivered consistently across the school day.

What we deliver

To deliver this, Warmley Park:

Our commitments to every pupil, family, and member of our community — the principles that guide how we work every day.

Every child has something to say

Total Communication means using all available means — signs, symbols, objects, technology, speech, gesture, and expression — to give every child the opportunity to communicate and be understood. No single approach works for every child, so we match methods to the individual.

Multimodal — combining speech, sign, symbol, and object

Consistent — used by all adults, across all settings

Personalised — tailored to each pupil's EHCP targets

Developmental — building on each child's current communication stage

INCLUSIVE LEARNING APPROACH

Communication methods you will see used at WPSC

At Warmley Park School and College, we champion diverse, supportive communication pathways to empower every pupil with functional expression and independent choice.

Communication Grids

Using structured layouts of functional symbols and words in both low-tech (physical communication books) and high-tech (speech-generating AAC screens) formats to support self-expression.

Symbols

Utilising picture-based representations to enhance general comprehension, visually model daily schedules, and offer clear choice-making support during activities.

Eye-gaze & Eye-pointing

Leveraging eye movements for selection using high-tech camera calibration devices, or transparent e-tran frames where pupils point their gaze to designate specific symbols.

Makaton

A highly structured language programme that pairs functional hand signs and visual symbols systematically alongside spoken speech to clarify and reinforce spoken language.

Hand under hand signing

An empathetic tactile technique where an intervenor signs with their hands underneath the pupil’s hands, allowing the pupil to passively feel, sense, and participate in shapes and directions.

Objects of Reference

Using specific, tangible items systematically to represent and flag scheduled transitions (like a small pool ring for swimming) to prepare pupils for change.

Switches and Big Macs

Single or multi-message tactile press switches loaded with recorded instructional prompts, interactive options, or sound effects for interactive multi-sensory storytelling.