Communication

At Richmond Hill, communication is truly the heart of everything we do. We understand that effective communication is foundational to every aspect of our pupils’ learning, development, and well-being. Our commitment is to provide a universal, targeted, and specialist approach to communication, recognising that each child’s needs are unique and require personalised support to ensure their voices are heard and valued.

Our approach is built on a deep understanding of how communication underpins learning and personal development. We create a language-rich environment where pupils engage in meaningful, back-and-forth interactions with skilled adults and peers. These interactions help build vocabulary, confidence, and the ability to express ideas and emotions. We use a wide range of strategies, including storytelling, role play, and sensitive questioning, to encourage pupils to articulate their thoughts and connect ideas, fostering both cognitive and social development.

Richmond Hill benefits from a dedicated team of internal specialists and external professionals who work collaboratively to support our pupils’ communication needs. This multidisciplinary team ensures that every child receives the right level of support—whether universal, targeted, or specialist—to thrive. We continually assess and review each pupil’s communication needs through a graduated approach, involving parents and carers as essential partners in this process. This holistic understanding allows our teaching staff to personalise learning and provide interventions that truly make a difference.

At Richmond Hill, communication is not just a skill—it is a vital tool that empowers pupils to connect meaningfully with others, engage confidently in their learning, and develop independence. We celebrate every child’s unique communication style and ensure their voice is central to their educational journey.