Learning Disability Week, this year taking place between 17th – 23rd June, places a spotlight on what life as someone with learning disabilities looks like.
This year’s theme, ‘Do you see me?’ highlights the need for people with learning disabilities to be seen, heard and valued.
Educators play a vital role in challenging the barriers faced by those with disabilities in schools, supporting them and aiding their development in pivotal ways from a young age.
These roles are multifaceted and incredibly rewarding, actively contributing to generating positive change in society. Here, we explore the many ways in which Special Educational Needs educators make a difference.
Providing individualised support and instruction
Special Educational Needs teachers and support staff plan and teach lessons that are entirely tailored to meet the needs of children with learning disabilities.
By receiving individualised care and instruction, children are more easily able to overcome specific hurdles and perform to the best of their abilities.
This could also include the creation of personalised learning plans that outline students’ strengths and weaknesses, learning goals and strategies for support.
Adapting teaching methods and materials
A large part of the work SEN teachers do is using different teaching strategies and tools to accommodate the needs of children with learning difficulties. As part of this, they often modify assessment methods to ensure every child’s work is assessed fairly, regardless of any learning difficulties.
This could involve multisensory learning, such as using visual aids or interactive strategies to enhance learning and retention, or technology integration to facilitate independent learning.
Through this, children with learning difficulties learn how to carry out tasks in ways that suit their learning style, also becoming more independent and self-aware.
Skill development
SEN educators help students with learning difficulties with a holistic approach, aiding the development of both academic and life skills such as communication, problem-solving, time management, collaboration and more.
This is vital in helping children achieve their full potential both while in education and later in life.
SEN teachers often address specific skill gaps by providing additional practice and reinforcement to develop proficiency, helping children with learning disabilities build confidence and overcome personal challenges.
Advocacy
When it comes to advocacy, special needs educators have a crucial role to play. By collaborating with parents and other stakeholders both within and outside educational establishments, they can help shift attitudes and improve perceptions.
There is often a lot of misinformation and ignorance surrounding children with learning disabilities, and SEN teachers become pivotal in raising awareness, being a voice for their students.
A vital part of this involves advocating for the rights and needs of children with learning disabilities within the school system, such as to ensure that appropriate resources and services are provided to support the students’ learning and development.
Empowerment
Special needs educators empower students by teaching them vital self-advocacy skills and nurturing a growth mindset. Through their work, they encourage students to recognise their strengths, overcome challenges, and advocate for themselves both in academic and social settings.
SEN teachers also offer social and emotional support to help students develop self-awareness, self-regulation, and interpersonal skills. They provide opportunities for social interaction, emotional expression, and conflict resolution, fostering a positive, supportive and empowering classroom environment.
By celebrating small achievements and progress in the right ways, educators boost children’s confidence and enhance their desire to engage in learning activities, building a brighter future for them.
Becoming a SEN teacher
SEN teachers are advocates, facilitators and contributors to the wellbeing and success of students with learning disabilities. These individuals create inclusive environments to suit their unique needs, a huge part of cultivating their independence and breaking down barriers.
These roles are vital in providing social and emotional support, offering positive reinforcement to build self-esteem as well as contributing to children’s professional development and independence post-education.
Are you interested in pursuing a rewarding career in SEN teaching? Contact a member of our team today to find out how Bookmark can help you:
