Speech and Language Advice

At Northfields, communication sits at the centre of learning. Speech, language and understanding skills underpin reading, writing, friendships, confidence and emotional wellbeing. When children can understand what is said to them and express what they are thinking, they thrive.

As part of our work towards the Herts Shining Communication Award, we are developing a whole-school communication-friendly approach so that every pupil is supported to find and use their voice.

What is Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)?

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a lifelong condition that affects a child’s ability to understand and/or use spoken language. It is not linked to intelligence, hearing loss or lack of exposure to language. Children with DLD may find it harder to follow instructions, learn new vocabulary, organise their thoughts into sentences or express ideas clearly.

Because language underpins learning, DLD can sometimes be mistaken for behaviour difficulties, inattention or low confidence. Early identification and support make a significant difference. If we have concerns about a pupil’s language development, we will always discuss this with parents and agree next steps together.

For further information about DLD, visit RADLD.

For practical advice and strategies to support speech, language and social communication, please visit the HCT Targeted Toolkit:
https://www.hct.nhs.uk/targeted-toolkit-for-social-communication—contents-list/

How We Monitor and Support Speech and Language

Speech and language development is monitored through everyday teaching, observation and assessment. Staff are trained to notice when a child may be struggling with understanding, vocabulary, sentence structure or expressive language.

Where needed, we:

  • Use structured language screening tools.
  • Review communication within pupil progress meetings.
  • Share observations with parents early.
  • Implement targeted small-group or individual interventions.
  • Work in partnership with external professionals when appropriate.

If specialist input is required, we may consult with or refer to Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust Speech and Language Therapy services, in discussion with families.

What This Looks Like in Class

Supporting communication is part of high-quality teaching for all pupils. Across the school you will see:

  • Clear, simple instructions supported by visuals.
  • Key vocabulary introduced and revisited before new learning.
  • Visual timetables and structured routines.
  • Modelling of full sentences and rich language.
  • Adults giving thinking time and encouraging turn-taking.
  • Calm, language-rich environments that reduce cognitive overload.

For some pupils, this universal support is enough. Others may receive additional targeted provision under SEND Support.

Support for Families

The following trusted organisations provide practical advice, videos and strategies that families can use at home:

STAMMA
Support and guidance for children and adults who stammer.

Tiny Happy People
Short videos and simple activities to build speech and language skills at home.

FOLLOW
A parent-led network supporting families of children with speech, language and communication needs.

If you have concerns about your child’s speech or language development, please speak to your child’s class teacher in the first instance. Mrs L. Yates (SENCo) can be contacted via senco@northfields.herts.sch.uk.

How This Links to Our Shining Communication Award

Our Speech and Language Advice page forms part of our commitment to the Herts Shining Communication Award. The award recognises schools that create communication-friendly environments, embed high-quality language teaching across the curriculum and work closely with families.

By sharing clear information, practical resources and consistent classroom strategies, we aim to ensure that communication is not left to chance. It is planned, monitored and celebrated. Strong communication supports academic achievement, emotional regulation and positive relationships — and we believe every child deserves that foundation.