Developing Provision For Children With Speech, Language And Communication Needs; The Role Of Key Stage 1 Classrooms

Abstract

Speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) are thought to have a negative influence on a child’s subsequent development and educational attainment and SLCN is the most prevalent primary educational need for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) in primary schools. As part of a wider investigation into provision for children with SLCN, 12 observations of Key Stage 1 (KS1) classrooms were completed to explore the language environment. The results highlighted that many classrooms had the structural features conducive to an oral language rich environment, however, the opportunities to practice language skills through interactions with adults and peers did not appear to be as well embedded. A number of elements are highlighted which consider those things that may need to be in place such that teachers are supported in developing provision for children with SLCN, as well as to enhance the language development opportunities for all children.