This service comprises a team of specialist peripatetic teachers who provide support and specialist intervention for pupils of all ages who have identified additional support needs.

The service can support young people in the following circumstances:

Illness

Pupils who have serious, prolonged or recurrent illness are kept in contact with their school through the hospital/home link teacher.

Pupils are referred to the service through the Royal Hospital for Sick Children, the Department of Community Child Health, or the child's school

English as a second language

Bilingual pupils or those children for whom English is an additional language are given help to access the curriculum and achieve full inclusion in the life of the school. Support may take the form of direct teaching or advice to school staff on appropriate teaching and learning strategies.

Information is also given on cultural services available and approaches which may be used to facilitate strong links with parents/carers.
Children are normally referred to the service by their school or pre-five establishment and the children are monitored throughout their educational career.

Pre-school learning disabilities

The pre-school home visiting teacher supports children under 5 years of age with complex learning disabilities. The teacher contributes to the assessment process and offers advice and support to families when the child is very young.

Inclusion into early years provision can also be facilitated. At present community health makes referrals to psychological services. However, these procedures will be reviewed to establish an integrated approach to assessment by establishing early years assessment teams (EYCAT)

Risk of exclusion

Co-ordinated by the education department. pupils whose behaviour places them at risk of exclusion from school may be supported to prevent exclusion and promote full inclusion in the life of the school.

When a pupil is excluded or has attendance difficulties and re-admission to school is not straightforward, the outreach service, as part of the East Lothian Inclusion Service, will liaise with the school and provide a programme to facilitate reintegration.

The Outreach Teaching Service liaises with other agencies and those organisations that provide support to children, young people and their families.