Inclusion and send

Gestalt Language Processing: Understanding the NLA Framework

Created by Liv Gisby, this course is aimed at teachers and support staff. You will be introduced to the concept of Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and guided through the six-stage Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) Framework. This course will also provide you with practical strategies to help guide learners from scripts (ecolalia) to original, flexible language. 
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Liv Gisby

2 hours

Online Course

By completing this course, you will:

learn the difference between Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and Analytic Language Processing (ALP);
review current research on the prevalence, characteristics and neurological basis of GLP, particularly in Autistic people;
explore the six sequential stages of Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) from whole scripts (Stage 1) to original, flexible language (Stage 6);
gain concrete techniques for modelling language, mitigating scripting and facilitating the crucial transition from gestalts to self-generated grammar;
learn why GLP awareness is crucial to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure every learner's unique communication style is understood, valued and nurtured.

Course Lessons

Written by: Liv Gisby

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Liv Gisby brings a unique perspective to education, drawing on over 15 years of experience across mainstream and special school settings, combined with four years of service as a Police Detective. Her educational career includes roles as a class teacher across the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), key stage 1 and key stage 2, before specialising as a SENCo for six years, during which she gained the National Award for SEN Coordination. Liv has an undergraduate degree in Psychology and extensive further training in Speech and Language (SALT); Occupational Therapy (OT); Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC); trauma; attachment; and specific learning difficulties, like dyslexia.

As a senior leader, she was responsible for managing staff development and delivering whole-school CPD related to special educational needs. Her ability to navigate complex safeguarding issues and multi-agency work is enhanced by her background as a detective, where she focused on domestic abuse and child protection.

This dual expertise now informs her work creating essential training materials for educators. Liv specialises in bridging the gap between clinical theory, classroom practice and critical welfare needs, ensuring that every resource she develops provides educators with the knowledge and practical tools required to offer truly holistic and impactful support for all pupils.