Multi‑Disciplinary and Integrated Provision

 
at Knightsfield School, a fully integrated, multi‑disciplinary approach underpins our provision for auditory–oral deaf pupils. Specialist input from professionals such as Speech and Language Therapists and the School Counsellor is embedded within the daily life of the school, ensuring seamless support that responds to each pupil’s individual needs.
We work in close partnership with audiology services and cochlear implant centres, with regular reviews taking place to ensure optimal access to sound and spoken language. Our collaborative approach extends to Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and deaf CAMHS, enabling us to promote pupils’ physical, emotional and mental wellbeing alongside their academic and communication development.
Knightsfield School maintains strong links with Hertfordshire’s specialist advisory services and those of neighbouring local authorities. These partnerships ensure that pupils with additional or multi‑sensory needs have timely access to expert advice, specialist equipment and tailored provision, enabling them to participate fully, communicate confidently and thrive both within school and beyond.

Speech and Language Therapy

At Knightsfield School, Speech and Language Therapy (SaLT) is an integral part of each pupil’s educational provision. Pupils with Speech and Language Therapy specified in their Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) receive support as part of their school day to ensure therapy is meaningful, accessible and embedded within learning.
For pupils who live in Hertfordshire, Speech and Language Therapy is provided by NHS Speech and Language Therapists, commissioned by Hertfordshire County Council.
Further information about this service can be found on the Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust website: Children and young people’s speech and language therapy
For pupils who live outside Hertfordshire, Speech and Language Therapy is delivered by an Independent Speech and Language Therapist, ensuring continuity and high‑quality provision. Further information can be found at: The Talking Express
Our Speech and Language Therapists work closely with each other and with the Knightsfield staff team and are in school on a regular weekly basis. They:
  • Assess pupils’ speech, language and communication needs
  • Deliver individual and small‑group therapy sessions
  • Support the development of functional communication skills
  • Work alongside teachers and support staff to implement strategies across the school day
This collaborative approach ensures that skills developed in therapy are reinforced in the classroom and wider school environment, supporting pupils to generalise and maintain progress.
Our vision is for every pupil to develop the communication skills they need to express themselves, engage with learning and fulfil their potential.

School Counselling Service

Knightsfield School works in partnership with Safe Space, the Hertfordshire schools counselling service, to provide emotional wellbeing support for pupils who may benefit from counselling.
The service:
  • Is available to both male and female pupils
  • Is tailored to the individual communication and emotional needs of our students
  • Provides a safe, supportive and confidential space
Referrals can be made by a teacher, parent/carer or the student themselves. All information shared is treated confidentially, unless there is a safeguarding concern where the school has a statutory duty to act.
This service forms part of Knightsfield School’s wider commitment to supporting pupils’ mental health, emotional resilience and overall wellbeing