Barriers to Learning

At Ennerdale CE Primary School, our vision guides everything we do:

“As one school family, we grow in God’s light; sharing love, kindness, and wisdom to make a positive impact on the world.”
“You are the light of the world” — Matthew 5:14

We believe every child is a unique and valued individual, created in God’s image and full of potential. Sometimes children face challenges that make learning more difficult, and it is our responsibility, working as one family, to recognise these barriers, shine God’s light of compassion upon them, and support every learner to flourish.

What Are Barriers to Learning?

Barriers to learning are any factors that can affect a child’s ability to engage, progress, or thrive at school. These may be emotional, social, physical, cognitive, or environmental, and they can impact children in different ways.

At Ennerdale, we work closely with families to understand each child’s needs and remove obstacles wherever possible, always guided by our values of love, kindness, and wisdom.

Common Barriers to Learning

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

Some children may have additional needs that affect:

  • Communication and interaction

  • Cognition and learning

  • Social, emotional, and mental health

  • Sensory or physical development

We work carefully with families and outside professionals to provide personalised and effective support so that every child can shine.

Emotional and Mental Wellbeing

A child’s wellbeing is central to their learning. Barriers may include:

  • Anxiety or worry

  • Changes at home

  • Difficulties with confidence or friendships

  • Challenges regulating emotions

Through our nurturing Christian ethos, pastoral support, and strong relationships, we help children feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

Attendance and Punctuality

Regular, punctual attendance helps children:

  • Build secure friendships

  • Maintain learning progress

  • Grow in confidence and independence

We work sensitively with families to address any difficulties and ensure that every child can take full part in school life.

Language and Communication Difficulties

Children learning English as an additional language or those with communication needs may need extra support to access vocabulary-rich learning and to express themselves with confidence.

Social or Environmental Factors

Life outside school can sometimes create challenges, such as:

  • Limited access to resources

  • Family changes or pressures

  • Socioeconomic difficulties

  • Reduced opportunities for enrichment

In the spirit of compassion and hospitality, we seek to understand these challenges and provide help where we can.

Physical Health or Medical Needs

Some children may have health conditions, fatigue, or physical barriers that affect participation. Working with healthcare professionals and families, we create tailored plans so every child can join in safely and confidently.

How We Support Children at Ennerdale CE Primary School

  • High-quality teaching, adapted to individual needs

  • Early identification of difficulties through careful monitoring

  • Targeted interventions led by trained staff

  • Support for wellbeing, including nurturing relationships and pastoral care

  • Strong partnerships with families, ensuring consistent support

  • Collaboration with external specialists, where needed

  • A Christian ethos that promotes belonging, dignity, and hope for every child

Through this approach, we strive to help each learner grow in God’s light and develop the confidence to shine in the world.

Working Together

Overcoming barriers to learning is a shared journey. As one school family; children, parents, staff, governors, church, and community, we seek to ensure every child can flourish academically, socially, spiritually, and emotionally.

If you have concerns about your child’s learning or wellbeing, please speak with your child’s class teacher or our SENDCo. We are here to help, support, and walk alongside you.