Frequently Asked Questions

Who does Pontville look after?

Pontville School is for young people aged 5-19 with an identified Social Communication Difficulty. This includes primary needs being associated with ASD, Aspergers Syndrome, Speech and Language difficulties. The school caters for young people across the ability range from those with a moderate / severe learning difficulty to those operating at above average cognitive ability and the resulting language and communication needs arising from these ability levels.

What is a statement of Special Educational Need?

In order to access Pontville School your child should already have a Statement of Special Educational Needs (SSEN). This should identify in a clear manner the ‘detailed, quantified and specific’ needs and requirement of provision for your child. The statement should make mention of language or communication needs which may, or may not, have and associated diagnosis (e.g.: ASD). If you are unsure about this system, or if you do not at present have a Statement please contact us for further advice in relation to the admissions process.

Will you be able to cater for my child’s needs?

Every child has their own individual needs and these need to be catered for in a manner that is sensitive to them. We aim to meet all aspect of a young person’s statement of needs and those aspects above and beyond the documentation we receive. To do so we have a robust admissions and assessment procedure so that both you, as parents, and the Local Authority feel comfortable that Pontville is the right school for your child.

Who do I need to call to arrange a visit to the school?

If you wish to visit the school please contact Mrs Jan Jones (Admissions Officer) on 01695 578734

Will I be involved in my child’s education?

We believe that parents are central to supporting their child’s education. It is essential that we work in partnership with yourselves to ensure that the optimum educational and home environment can be obtained. We offer workshops that help parents to become more aware of their child’s needs and simple adjustments that could support time spent at home and at school.

How do I make a complaint about your school?

We hope that all difficulties that you have can be quickly and effectively dealt with informally by discussion with teachers, the Deputy Head Teacher (Elaine Riley), or Head Teacher (Iain Sim). However the school does have a complaints system for young people and parents. Details of which can be found in the policy area or are available on request from the school.

Can I speak to someone informally about my child? You can always contact us for help and advice about your child, whether your child is on roll with us at the school or you are simply seeking more help, information or advice about your child’s needs and how you can help support them at home, or in terms of educational provision.

When is your school’s open day/sports day/parents evening?

Every year the school has an open day for parents which is intended to give you a chance to meet with teachers and discuss the progress of your child. Additionally we combine the day with our Summer Fayre so that you have time to relax and talk to each other and enjoy the activities and stalls we have arranged supporting local charities

How does the admissions process work?

Our admissions process is a simple system that allows you to have a quick response to a referral and security in the knowledge that the school will undertake a thorough assessment of your child’s needs to help support. In the first instance we receive paperwork with regard to your child from the Local Authority requesting that we consider your child for a place at the school. We will respond to this request within 7 days indicating whether we feel from reviewing the details we have received suitable for your child.

Following the success of these days your child will start with us full time on an agreed date, or on a phased introduction if more supportive of adapting to change. After 12 weeks we will arrange for an interim review to give you feedback on all aspects assessed.

I have been called to a review meeting. What will happen and who else will be present?

The annual review is your opportunity to say how you feel your child has progressed at our school. It is an occasion to be celebrated in terms of positive developments seen at school and at home. It is also a time to look forward and consider what needs to be addressed in the next year. Annual reviews will usually be hosted at the school and involve you, a Chair (Head Teacher or Deputy Head Teacher), the named Speech and Language Therapist for your child, the Local Authority representative, Connexions (if year 9 or above) and Social Worker (if one is named). The meeting looks at progress to date and future plans and will make reference to your child’s statement of special educational needs to identify if any changes are required.