Supporting Communication Across the School: Staff Engagement with AAC and ALD Boards

At our school, we are committed to ensuring that all students have the tools they need to communicate effectively. This term, we’ve been focusing on enhancing our staff engagement with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, as well as integrating ALD (Alternative Learning Device) boards in our playgrounds to support communication in all areas of school life.

One of the key initiatives this term is the use of AAC devices, which are designed to support students who may face challenges with verbal communication. Our staff have been embracing these devices, carrying them wherever they go to model and encourage their use in all environments. By integrating AAC into daily routines, we are helping students become more comfortable with these tools, allowing them to express themselves with greater confidence and clarity.

In addition to this, we are working towards the implementation of ALD boards on the playgrounds. These boards will serve as an important communication tool for students, offering symbols, words, and visuals to help them interact with their peers and teachers in outdoor spaces. The aim is to create an inclusive environment where communication is accessible at all times, whether in the classroom or on the playground.

Our teachers and staff are excited to see the impact these initiatives will have on student engagement and social interaction. Through their dedication and collaboration, we are creating a school culture that values every student’s voice and encourages communication in all its forms.

We look forward to continuing to build on these efforts in the coming months and appreciate the ongoing support from our school community in making these initiatives successful.