Communication and Interaction

‘Is it not wonderful to be a communicator? Do you not think that human communication is a brilliant thing to take part in, or to watch other people doing’ Dave Hewitt 2018 

We use a Total Communication Approach at Nexus to support pupils with the development of their Communication and Interaction. Such an approach provides the following:  

A sign supported environment using Makaton. Makaton is a language development system which helps the use of spoken language and is very effective in enabling pupils understand what is said to them as well as providing a means of expression. 

A symbol rich environment in which a recommended vocabulary of Makaton and Widget symbols are used to support transitions between activities and places as well as to support understanding, is used across the school.  

General and personalised Visual Support is put into place to enable pupils to understand, plan and regulate with.  

V.O.C.A.s (Voice Output Communication Aids) are provided when appropriate to support learning such as during Interactive Story sessions, as well as to provide a means of expression. These can be activated, if necessary, using switche. There are also two Eyegaze Systems in the school.  

Personalised Communication books and choosing boards are provided for pupils if they are assessed as able to benefit from these.  

This Total Communication Approach is part of the development of Literacy at Nexus. Approaches such as Intensive Interaction are also used widely in the school.  

Charlotte Parkhouse  
Communication and Engagement Lead