Communication Environment

We all need to think carefully about how to create a classroom environment which promotes communication. Pupils at Cherry Oak need to be given cues on a daily basis to allow them to access the curriculum.

Every class at Cherry Oak uses the same system for creating visual timetables, discussing & displaying the weather, pupils in class and days of the week. This is usually done during class circle time.

Visual Timetables

The use of the visual timetable prepares the pupils for their day, and more importantly for any changes that may occur in the timetable. When pupils are able to anticipate what is happening next, they can be more actively involved and access the curriculum more effectively.

Every class has a personalised set of symbols, and are organised into days to make organising the visual timetable more effective. See classroom staff for the location of these) These are made up of photo’s and/or symbols, depending on which class you are working in. Every class uses the same format, from Early Years up to Willow Class. The day is organised into morning and afternoon.

It is important to remember to remove a photo/ symbol after the event has finished. This is to enable children to see what is happening next, and follow the days plan.