Learning Centre
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 Mrs Whittaker Learning Mentor |
Mrs Scott
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‘The Combi Centre’ as we are affectionately known, is a Learning Support Unit and a centre of provision for alternative learning packages. Our department comprises of 4 dedicated members of staff who all have extensive training and experience in special educational needs; physical, emotional, educational and/or social. The Combi Centre provides a safe small-group learning environment; it is a fully-inclusive building with PD toilets and thoughtfully planned classrooms with good access.
Our primary ethos is to engage students by improving their relationship with learning and their self-regard. We support the lower KS3 students (years 7 & 8) with increasing their emotional intelligence and have developed a range of programmes to build confidence and coping strategies. In Year 9 we focus on improving their academic achievement, with the added benefit of improving their relationship with institutional authority. KS4 students access the counselling and guidance packages in addition to coursework support.
Examples of the courses and provisions we offer:
Open House Counselling: This is an external agency offering their services to the College. Students are seen individually and privately in one of our rooms. Priority is discussed with Heads of Year and feedback from students is that this is a really effective provision.
Overcoming Bullying Group: This programme is aimed at helping students should they be perceived as a victim of bullying. The focus is on improving their assertiveness (understanding passivity, aggression and passive aggression), group support and problem-solving. Students learn coping strategies, as well as being encouraged to develop positive self-image. When the support sessions finish, the students are invited to join an after-school club and as with all guidance, if they need more intensive support, all routes are explored.
Ask Auntie: Auntie is anonymous to the students. They are encouraged to e-mail Auntie with their problems, specifically if they encounter any bullying issues. Auntie will offer advice and guidance in addition to encouraging these students to consider the Friendship groups this term, or – if not – an Overcoming Bullying Group. Students are always advised to speak to a member of the Pastoral Team (and tutors) about their issues.
Guidance 1:1: KS3, KS4 and KS5 students have all access to this support. These are mentoring sessions and provide an opportunity for students to discuss their problems with a solution-based focus. Staff are there to advise, not counsel , allowing us to assess any further needs.
Friendship Group: This programme has been developed to meet the needs of students who struggle to make and maintain friendships. It focuses on Year 7 support and it catches the ‘grey’ students; those not making a fuss but not feeling included either.
Self-Regard and Body Confidence Support Group: This programme has been developed to meet the growing need for support for our students with poor self-image. We have established links with Dove, BEAT and Gok Wan (as part of his own Body Confidence Government campaign).
Focus Group: This is a small group to help students who are struggling academically due to behaviour issues.
Coursework support: KS4 students are supported primarily with their academic studies in addition to the social and emotional packages we offer.
If you have any questions about the sort of work we do, please do not hesitate to contact any one of the Team; we will happily make time to give you a guided tour and discuss our provision.
Telephone: 01483 484813 or email: h.marsden@kingscollegeguildford.com
Further Learning Support is provided for students with statements by the Learning Enhancement & Special Needs Team. Click here for more information.
To find out more about our outstanding provision for students with physical disabilities visit The Physically Disabled Centre.