Jordanstown Schools

Outreach Service for the Visually Impaired

What is the Outreach Service for the Visually Impaired ?

This service provides specialist advice and support to children and young people with visual impairment, their parents/carers and school staff, often from pre-school onwards. We work closely with other professionals and organisations to ensure that the practical and educational implications of each child's visual impairment are addressed.

How does the Outreach Service for the Visually Impaired help children and young people with visual impairment?

An initial assessment of functional vision is undertaken as soon as possible after referral in an environment familiar to the child. This assessment is then used to determine strengths and weaknesses, draw up suggestions for intervention and set goals for future achievements. Further assessments are carried out on a regular basis, as individual needs differ and will change over time. In the years preceding formal schooling all work is carried out in partnership with the parents:

Guiding the family to provide appropriate stimulation;
Offering suggestions on management;
Providing information on suitable toys and other resources;
Accessing specific support and services;
Arranging contact with other parents;
Discussion on education provision and the process of statutory assessment.

The aim of the support provided to schools and Further Education Colleges is to enable pupils/students to fulfil their potential whilst at the same time developing and increasing independence. The range of support includes:

Advice on the provision of adapted materials in the appropriate medium;
Advice on alternative teaching methods;
Provision of specialist equipment and training in its use;
Teaching in specialist curriculum areas e.g. Braille, mobility, ICT;
Recommendations regarding special arrangements for examinations;
Awareness raising for peers;
Support with transition planning and the provision of careers advice;
Provision of in-service training for school staff.

How are referrals made to the Outreach Service for the Visually Impaired ?

We take referrals from:

Education and Library Boards, Special Education Officers, Educational Psychologists;
Schools, Principals, SENCos;
Health Service Personnel - Ophthalmic Consultants, Low Vision Clinic Staff, Community Paediatricians, Health Visitors;
Social Services Personnel - Social workers, Rehabilitation officers;
Voluntary Organisations - RNIB, SENSE;
Parents/guardians and other family members.

Any query relating to a child's or young person's vision will be investigated. The parent's/guardian's permission will be sought before clinical information is requested from any medical personnel.

For further information please contact:

Outreach Service for the Visually Impaired
85 Jordanstown Road
NEWTOWNABBEY
BT37 OQE

Answerphone/Fax: 028 9086 3541

email: osvi@jordanstownschools.co.uk