Communication bands: A framework of shared understanding

Alison Futerman, Therapy Service Manager and Speech and Language Therapist, Eden Academy Trust, UK Gill Smith, Professional Development Service Manager, Eden Academy Trust, UK Dr Paul van Walwyk, Director for Schools and Educational Services, Eden Academy Trust, UK This case study reflects on the introduction and impact of communication bands within the Eden Academy Trust (EAT), a multi-academy trust of special schools in London and northern England. Communication bands are an intervention framework designed to support the communication skills of pupils with a range of learning difficulties. Within EAT, where students have multiple and complex needs, a significant number of pupils were identified who, due to their underlying communication disabilities, were unlikely to achieve set targets. There was also a smaller group of pupils who were not being stretched enough. In both cases, not enough time was spent pitching teaching at a level that enabled adequate progress to be made. EA