A Chance to Talk

A Chance to Talk (ACTT) is a unique programme of training, support and intervention. It will enable clusters of primary schools to provide an evidence based approach to improving the speech, language and communication skills of children aged 4-7. It has been developed by children’s communication charity I CAN, The Communication Trust and the Every Child a Chance Trust.

How does A Chance to Talk make a difference for pupils?

The programme will:

1. Ensure all children are learning in communication supportive environments with trained and confident teaching staff.
2. Offer direct support for children with delayed language through a ‘catch up’ programme, delivered by trained teaching assistants and volunteers. With the right support at the right time, many of these children can catch up with their peers and progress well at school.
3. Provide intensive one-to-one or small group support for children with more severe and persistent communication difficulties, delivered by trained language specialists.
4. Ensure school staff are skilled and confident in supporting children’s communication across all ages and ability, and provide quality information and support to children’s families appropriate to their child’s needs.

When will A Chance to Talk be available?

A Chance to Talk is being piloted from September 2010 to July 2012 in clusters of 8 primary schools in 4 areas - Rochdale, Whitby, Kirkby and West Kent (32 schools in total). These pilot schemes will finish in July 2012. The 'catch-up' programme - a Wave 2 Intervention - will be available in 2012.