Every Child a Talker
Every Child a Talker (ECaT) is a programme which trains staff to support the early language development of children. Our Assistant Headteacher, Mrs Griffiths, is the Early Language Consultant for West Berkshire and provides training to other schools, pre-schools and daycare settings as well as keeping our staff up to date here at Victoria Park.
Our staff are expert at developing children’s early communication and language skills and all the children have lots of opportunity to learn songs, rhymes and stories with patterned language. Each term we have a Rhyme Challenge which involves the children learning 5 rhymes at nursery and at home. At the end of each term there is a performance which families are encouraged to attend.
Staff are also experienced in using the ECaT assessments to identify issues which may need the support of a Speech and Language therapist. This includes the whole range of commuication skills - everything from listening and attention to speech sounds. Early intervention is really important so that children have the skills they need when they move up to primary school.