The Learning Lighthouse
The Learning Lighthouse is a dedicated Learning Support Classroom within our school, created to provide a nurturing, structured and inclusive environment for children in the upper primary years who have a statement of Special Educational Needs. The Lighthouse supports pupils whose primary needs relate to Moderate Learning Difficulties, as well as those who may have additional needs such as Speech and Communication difficulties or Autism Spectrum Disorder.
At the heart of The Learning Lighthouse is its calm, caring and highly skilled leader, Mrs McGinley, supported by Learnung Support Assistants Miss Dickson and Miss Butcher, who provide a warm and supportive space where every child is valued, understood and encouraged to achieve their full potential. With a low pupil–adult ratio, children benefit from personalised attention, targeted learning experiences and consistent encouragement throughout the school day. Staff within the Learning Lighthouse also engage in ongoing professional development to ensure they remain up to date with current SEN practices, strategies and approaches.
Opened in Jnauary 2026, The Learning Lighthouse is a bright, modern and thoughtfully designed classroom equipped to meet the needs of all learners. Children follow the Northern Ireland Primary Curriculum and receive carefully tailored teaching in the NI Curriculum to help them grow in confidence and develop essential skills at their own pace.
Inclusive practice is central to everything we do at Castleroe. Pupils in The Learning Lighthouse are very much part of our school community and take part in a wide range of whole-school activities. They play alongside their peers at break and lunch times, attend assemblies and concerts, join after-school clubs where appropriate, and regularly participate in learning sessions withtheir mainstream peers. These experiences help build friendships, promote confidence and support the development of social and communication skills.
Our Learning Lightghouse pupils also enjoy theripeutic horse riding sessions with RDA on the Castleoe Road throughout the year.
