The collaborative approach, which began in 2023, has seen nursery staff and Speech and Language Therapists work closely to foster a communication-rich environment. This initiative introduced dedicated Communication Champions and visual communication supports, which are now embedded throughout daily routines.
Visual tools such as ‘Now and Next’ timetables, choice boards, and chat boards are now used across the nursery. These aids help children express preferences, communicate emotions, build relationships, and participate more confidently in activities like handwashing, snack times, and play.
Nursery staff have also benefited from specialist training opportunities provided by the Speech and Language Therapy Service, including Adult-Child Interaction and Intensive Interaction programmes. This training, combined with ongoing coaching, has equipped staff with the expertise to deliver targeted interventions supporting listening skills, vocabulary development, and early language acquisition.
As a result, children receive timely support within their everyday nursery experiences, often developing essential speech, language, and communication skills without needing individual Speech and Language Therapy intervention. Parents and carers have also been supported through Makaton sessions and sign-sharing videos, helping families encourage communication and language development at home.
“"Every single day, the success of our approach comes to life in the growing confidence and evolving skills of our children. We know that this progress relies on strong connections, which is why we place immense value on our partnerships with families and professionals. Moving forward, we will continue to build on what we have achieved together fostering an inclusive space where individualised, timely support ensures no child is left behind."
The initiative has significantly boosted staff confidence in identifying and responding to communication needs early. Sustainable systems are now in place to ensure future generations of children benefit from high-quality support. Raploch Nursery plans to introduce interactive AAC walls, implement Attention Autism approaches, and become a Word Aware-trained nursery, with continued support from the Speech and Language Therapy Service.
