Creating an Inclusive Classroom - How important is this?
My Path to Education
I entered the profession after completing my degree in Education Studies and Psychology at Durham University and then my PGCE in Primary Education, also at Durham. I have been teaching for 12 years now, which both amazes me at how short this seems and baffles me at how many years it feels! I do think time perception is slightly warped in teaching - you live in half term cycles and academic years rather than calendar years, so it is amazing how quickly time seems to go!
A Passion for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
Throughout my degree and PGCE, I had a keen interest in special educational needs and disabilities. I enjoyed finding out how our education system had changed for the better throughout the years to recognise children’s individual needs and become a much more inclusive system. One of my motivators for joining the teaching profession was to provide the very best educational experience for children with SEND and create an inclusive classroom where all children can thrive.
Core Belief in Inclusion
Inclusion is at the heart of Kate’s educational philosophy that all children have a right to a quality education.
“I truly and passionately believe in inclusion. I believe that all children should be given the opportunity to attend their local school, alongside their friends and neighbours, within their local community. I believe that all children deserve access to the very best education and should be given every chance to access every opportunity in school. So, I was more than excited to write a how to guide on creating an inclusive classroom and ensuring all children feel welcomed, accepted and supported.
Kate’s Top 5 Tips for Creating an Inclusive Classroom
1. Get to know your SENDCo
Your SENDCo holds a wealth of knowledge about the children in your school with SEND, including how to support them, what adaptations to make, and how to remove barriers. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and for help if you need it.
2. Know your SEND Support Plans and EHCPs
Children who have SEND in your class will have a SEND Support Plan or an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP). Get to know these documents inside out and back to front. The best plans will continuously be updated like a working document. Make sure you follow the recommended adaptions for the children in your class. Treat them like one of the most important documents you have!
3. Get to know your children
This seems obvious, but really get to know your children with SEND. Build strong relationships and listen. Children will tell you what helps, and if they can’t tell you, they will show you. Listen – they are the experts!
4. Get to know the parents
Parents are trusting you with their most valuable, loved possession – their child. For parents of children with SEND, school can be an anxiety inducing time. Speak openly and honestly with parents, keeping them informed at every step. Ask for their advice and opinions and include them in your classroom provision. Again, listen – they are the experts on their child!
5. Make it personal
When thinking about how to ensure your classroom is as inclusive as possible, my top tip is make it personal. If this was a relative or your own child, would you think you are doing enough? Be honest with yourself and reflect on any further adaptions that could be made to remove barriers for all children. Looking at your classroom from this angle will ensure you are empathetic, solution focused and truly inclusive.