Assistive Technology (AT), including AI

✨ Our aim is for Assistive Technology to become part of all that we do, for it to be second nature so that our pupils can access this support independently and with confidence.

✨ We want all of our learners to be independent and not seek reliance on an individual for support if they can avoid it. Using assistive technology develops their independence and skills that they can use both in and out of their lessons each day, and beyond their time at Moon Hall.

“There is a strong focus on enabling pupils to communicate including through the use of assistive technology." (ISI Report, December 2024) - Pupils are supported and encouraged to use Assistive Technology through a variety of ways; through using dictation (speech-to-text) and read aloud (text-to-speech)* software, Inspiration mind-mapping software, and touch typing lessons.

⭐ Tools Don’t Scale. Systems Do

(MHS presentation for UNESCO, Nov 2025)

• As well as delivering SEN / life-skills Assistive Technology webinars and face-to-face workshops to parents/carers, schools, and the likes of The Society of Heads and Amazing Apprenticeships, Moon Hall also assists Microlinkpc, as part of the 'be thAT teacher' programme, a FREE AT programme for all state and now independent schools - Assistive Technology (AT) Training for Schools Evaluation report (DfE).

Interested? Please contact Mr David Curran

Resources:

• Can Bimodal Reading Enhance Reading Comprehension?
• Neurodivergent Learning Strategies Combined (British Dyslexic Association, National Autistic Society & Scope guides)
• Internet Safety (MHS)
• Parent/Carer guide - 'Introduction to Assistive Technologies' covering:

✨ Use of Technology

"SENCos may wish to consider the use of technology to a much greater extent instead of readers and scribes. Computer readers, examination reading pens, speech recognition technology and word processors not only allow candidates to work independently but are also a better preparation for Further and Higher Education and the world of employment" (JCQ 2020)

✨ Accessibility

Improve how the layout of your device looks, for example text size / style / colour and backgrounds, and the way you use it

• Apple
• Android
• MS Office 365
  • Using ‘Dictate’ in Word
  • Using ‘Immersive Reader’ in Word
  • Using ‘Immersive Reader’ in Edge
  • MS Learn - Learning paths / Certifications (become Microsoft certified) / Learn events
• Google

✨ 🤖 Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Moon Hall uses Assistive Technology and carefully selected AI tools to support clear explanations, structured learning and confidence building. These tools do not replace teaching. They help pupils learn step by step and think more independently.

AI is used safely and responsibly at school. We never enter personal information. All use follows UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act and national guidance on AI in education.

Pupils are encouraged to think critically, check information, and create their own ideas. AI cannot complete work for them.

Examples at Moon Hall include the use of Microsoft's Reading Progress (in-school), Reading Coach (at home) and Presenter Coach, text-to-image/music generators, ChatGPT (from aged 13), Gamma presentation-generation, Canva for graphic design, ThingLink's immersive worlds, and a whole stable of subject, careers, teacher resource-generation and SEN/therapy support chatbots on the Mindjoy platform.

• Using AI effectively at a specialist dyslexic school (MHS case study - The Charter College of Teaching, June 2025)

• How Moon Hall School Reigate Is Personalising Learning for Neurodivergent Students with Mindjoy (MHS case study)

Events & resources:

• #BotsonTour - Moon Hall School takes part at AIducation'25 AI conference in Bucharest

• 'AI AT home' Part 1 - (Intro) Will AI Take Over the World - video
• 'AI AT home' Part 1 - (Intro) Will AI Take Over the World - resources
• 'AI AT home' Part 2 - Practical uses of AI (Parents/Carers & Friends of MHS March 2025) - video
• 'AI AT home' Part 2 - Practical uses of AI (Parents/Carers & Friends of MHS March 2025) - resources

• Agenda

  • Creative writing support - image creation and creative writing prompts
  • Microsoft's Reading Progress (in-school), Reading Coach (at home) and Presenter Coach
  • Revision - summarising using bullet points, flashcards and tables; 'study-buddy'; interviewing characters in literature and history, etc.
  • Careers support - research, applying and interview techniques & practise
  • Mindjoy chatbots at Moon Hall
  • Vocal revision - podcasts and songwriting

!!! AI important notices !!!

- Please do not enter any personal details, and

- ensure that all facts generated by AI are independently verified for accuracy. Whilst we strive for reliability, AI-generated information may not always be accurate (‘hallucinations’), unbiassed or up-to-date. Your diligence in fact-checking is crucial

✨ TextHelp Read&Write*

Did you know? 

"A year long study identified that 66% of Read&Write* users saw an improvement in reading age, compared to non Read&Write users (27%)" (quote source)

Features:

* with features such screenreader / text-to-speech and speech-to-text

* for use on all software applications and online at home and at school

* for use in exams for those with access arrangements

Resources:

• FREE download
• How to use Read&Write:

• ThingLink
• A Parents Guide to Texthelp Tools - Wakelet
• MHS YouTube –
  • Moon Hall School ‘Shorts’ (30-45 sec) video series
  • Moon Hall School 'Long-trousers' (1 min+) video series

✨ Touch typing using KAZ

One of our Moon Hall students receiving her Level 2 qualification in Touch Typing

• Can be accessed from home at Kaz: Flying Start
• Students use their school email address and the set-up password: Moon2021! / Moon2022! / Moon2023!

Once logged on, students have the following options:

• ‘My Results’ – see individual accuracy (1^st goal = 90%) and speed results
• ‘The Basics’ & ‘And The Rest’ – touch typing lessons to start with / come back to
• ‘Just Do It’ – muscle memory builder, including Moon Hall keywords, and challenges
• ‘SpeedBuilder’ – daily practise to build speed and accuracy
• Inter-school’s Challenge – click on the cup

✨ Additional FREE touch typing resources

• SpeedTypingOnline - has typing lessons, speed test (speed and errors), copy typing
• TypingClub - another structured programme to work through
• Monkeytype - go against the clock

( image - www.achievenow.org.uk)

'Positive screentime' at home - 'Housepoints for Homework'

Please encourage 15-20 minutes ‘play’ as and when possible

✨ Reader pens

✨ Orcams

✨ Books, books, books

Merely some suggestions . . . 

Surrey libraries 

Storyline Online - Home

LibriVox

BBC Teach

As always, please contact David Curran directly if you have any thoughts, need any further help, or if you have any questions about anything Assistive Tech, including AI 😊