The Integrated Physical and Sensory Service (IPaSS) offer assessment, training, and support to students with visual and hearing impairments at Frederick Holmes School as well as supporting the transition of students with physical disabilities to and from mainstream settings.
The Visually Impaired team have Qualified Teachers of the Visually Impaired (QTVIs), specialist teaching assistants, and Habilitation and Mobility workers. We carry out visual and mobility assessments, short term intervention programmes to develop visual skills, and longer term intensive support when a young person needs specialist skills such as Braille or cane skills.
The Hearing Impaired Team have Qualified Teachers of the Deaf (QToDs), Specialist Teaching Assistants and Deaf Instructors. The support from the Hearing Impaired team is wide ranging. This includes carrying out specialist assessments, monitoring hearing aids and cochlear implants and advising on the use of technology, such as radio aids.
We also focus on developing listening, spoken language or signing and communication skills. We support children with their social skills, self-advocacy and preparing for adulthood. Working with other professionals is a key aspect of our role and in particular supporting teachers in school, by advising on how to adapt the school environment and curriculum to meet the specific needs of the the deaf child.
