Student Support

 

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
At Hafs Academy, we are dedicated to meeting the individual learning needs of our students, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and English as an Additional Language (EAL). Rooted in Islamic values of compassion and fairness, we strive to provide an inclusive environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

We work closely with external agencies to provide the best support for our SEN and EAL students, ensuring they receive personalised interventions to help them reach their full potential.

In-school Support
Students with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or additional Special Educational Needs receive a Student Strategy sheet, which is shared with all teaching staff to ensure they are supported in lessons. Information regarding each student’s specific needs is communicated to all teachers.

In-lesson support is provided by our team of Learning Support Assistants, and we ensure that students who require exam access arrangements receive the necessary adjustments, including extra time, a reader, or a scribe, where eligible.

We offer targeted intervention workshops for students needing extra support in literacy, numeracy, social, emotional, and communication needs. Intervention programmes include:

  • Bedrock
  • Speech & Language Groups
  • Mentoring
  • Booster Classes
  • Homework Club

The Sanctuary
The Sanctuary provides a nurturing environment for small group withdrawal programmes that focus on literacy, numeracy, social skills, and more. These interventions are available before and after school, as well as during break and lunch times. Students are also welcome to access this space for additional support.

Homework Club
Each day after school, Hafs Academy provides a safe and supportive environment in the library where students can complete their homework with access to resources and guidance.

English As An Additional Language (EAL)
Our EAL learners are supported in English Language workshops, which occur most lunchtimes. These workshops cater to different levels of language proficiency and are overseen by a member of the Inclusion Department. Every EAL learner is also assigned a buddy to help them settle and integrate into the Academy community.

Challenge for All
In every lesson, students are given opportunities for stretch and challenge to extend their learning. This may include research tasks, challenging questioning, or presenting their work to the class. We also offer an enrichment programme to broaden the academic and personal development of our students.

Other Support Services for Students
In addition to academic support, Hafs Academy provides:

  • Independent careers education and guidance
  • Personal, social, and health education (PSHE)
  • Daily tutor sessions
  • Student mentoring
  • Higher education guidance

We encourage students to take responsibility for their learning, and our tutor programme focuses on individual and group interviews with tutors, target setting, and action planning. Parents/carers are involved in this process during consultation evenings.

The Academy also has first aiders who are available to provide health advice and first aid as needed. Our trained Student Support Advisor is available for students to meet on a drop-in basis during break and lunchtime or by scheduled appointments through the Head of Year. The safeguarding team is dedicated to addressing any emotional, health, and welfare issues.

Personal, Social, Health Education (PSHE)
PSHE education is a key part of our curriculum, helping students develop the knowledge, skills, and attributes needed to thrive as individuals, family members, and members of society. Our PSHE programme addresses important issues such as responsibility, relationships, health and hygiene, personal beliefs, decision making, and study skills.

Social, Moral, Spiritual, and Cultural Education (SMSC)
SMSC education at Hafs Academy is integral to our curriculum, promoting the development of students as responsible and ethical individuals. We explore the role of faith, culture, and values in society, addressing topics like tolerance, diversity, and social cohesion. We also promote awareness of issues such as fundamental British values, safeguarding, and race relations.

Work-Related Learning (WRL)
Our Work-Related Learning programme helps students prepare for the world of work, focusing on career discovery and building key employability skills. In Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9), students are introduced to various careers and the skills needed for future employment through tutor time activities, industry-led workshops, and trips. Each year, students build upon their skills to better prepare for their future careers.

For more information about our Work-Related Learning and Careers offering, please visit the WRL section on the Academy’s website.