Julie

Communication is at the heart of what I do and so I am very experienced in working towards forming ways of communicating with the pupils using a Total Communication approach, led by them. For those at the very earliest stages of communication I might start with them simply being aware of a stimuli, but for those that are further along in their communication we may use sign, photos, key words, object cues, PECs, Core Boards, AACs etc. For some learners a 'what's in the box?' or 'bucket' approach may be what's needed. For those who are starting their literacy and maths journeys I use a variety of strategies to engage them, such as games, songs, different types of mark making, music etc so that they are having fun whilst learning. The key is to be adaptable! A multi-sensory approach is at the core of my teaching with every type of learner and this could be use of intensive interaction, sensory stories/journeys, messy play, art, musical ‘baths' or interactive music, stories and poems or a session targeted to a particular sense. This could also be setting up activities to encourage pupils to reach out and become more confident in the world around them, which also helps develop language and counting skills, including the development of reading and writing. I also like to consider the part that environment plays and being aware of the ‘sensory pollution' is important too. I am very patient and recognise that repetition and routine is vital for many pupils and so I establish cues to start and finish sessions and can use body signs to support this where appropriate. Once I have a baseline of where the pupil is, I can develop a well scaffolded set of activities, although I am all too aware that many SEN pupils have very spiky profiles! I am very experienced in drawing together outcomes from EHCPs and reports from other professionals into my sessions and this gives the pupils a chance to practice skills regularly rather than in just one session. Including the views of parents/carers is something that is vital and I have always been considered as a teacher who is very approachable.