Speech, Language and Communication

is one of our Key Drivers at St Columba's School 

Speech, language and communication skills are crucial to 'Young children's' overall development.  Being able to 'speak' clearly and process 'speech' sounds to understand others, to express ideas and to interact with others are fundamental building blocks for a child's' development.

Speech - The expression of words, thoughts and feelings by articulating sounds. 

Language - Communication by either speech or written word.

Communication - Sharing information by writing, speaking or through another medium.

Communication is fundamental to children's development; children need to be able to understand and be understood.  Communication is the foundation of relationships and is essential for learning, play and social interaction.  Communication Trust (https;//bit.ly/2WhOiG1).

Speech and language communication enables children to build positive relationships, form friendships and learn by listening, talking and questioning.  Good speech, language and communication skills have a positive impact on confidence and self-esteem.  By interacting and playing using speech and language, a child or young person develops social skills and friendships that support their well-being.  As children learn and use new vocabulary, they gain confidence in speech and learn to express their feelings, which will mean that their needs are met.  Good speech, language and communication skills support educational achievement and employment opportunities.

If a child or young person has difficulties with speech, language and communication, they are more likely to have difficulty in developing reading and writing skills, have behaviour difficulties and difficulty in forming friendships and making social connections.  Difficulty in expressing themselves causes frustration and isolation.  Many children and young people with speech, language and communication difficulties have significant behavioural difficulties or are withdrawn which may result in a negative impact on confidence and self-esteem.  Poor communication has an impact on mental health, employment opportunities and links closely to poor educational achievement and poverty.

At St Columba's we hold speech, language and communication as one of our key drivers.  We aim to feed it into all areas of the curriculum and life of the school. Children are screened on entry and support is put in place for those who are struggling.