Almost everything we do involves speech, language and/or communication. Everyday tasks, learning, sorting out problems, having a conversation, getting a job, making friends and having fun all rely on our ability to communicate.

Being able to say what you want to say and to understand what other people are saying is the most important skill we need in life. Yet many people take communication for granted. Some children and young people have difficulty communicating with others; they have speech, language and communication needs - often referred to as ‘SLCN’.

NOTE: If you are concerned about your child’s speech, language and/or communication, please speech to your child’s teacher and/or Mr Hall

Speech refers to:

• speaking with a clear voice, in a way that makes speech interesting and meaningful;
• speaking without hesitating too much or without repeating words or sounds;
• being able to make sounds like ‘k’ and ‘t’ clearly so people can understand what you say.

Language refers to talking and understanding:

• joining words together into sentences, stories and conversations;
• knowing and choosing the right words to explain what you mean;
• making sense of what people say.

Communication refers to how we interact with others:

• using language or gestures in different ways, for example to have a conversation or to give someone directions;
• being able to consider other people’s point of view;
• using and understanding body language and facial expressions, such as: knowing when someone is bored, being able to listen to and look at people when having a conversation, knowing how to take turns and to listen as well as talk, and knowing how close to stand next to someone.

This section of our website provides information about children and young people who may need some additional help with their communication, some signs to look out for and some ways to provide further help.