The SEND code of practice says every teacher is a teacher of SEN, but what makes a great teacher of SEN?
Having policies and procedures to support students with SEN is important but having the right people deployed to support the process is critical. As a result, getting the right people in place to support non-traditional learners in both the mainstream and specialist settings is without a doubt one of the greatest challenges for school leaders.
Fintan O’Regan, Behaviour and SEN Consultant, joins Dale this week to outline some of qualities that make a great teacher of SEN. People skills are crucial and being proactive and not reactive is vital. Fintan discusses the fact that the key issues are not about knowledge of SEN labels, but how best to support different traits in children and young people.
Listen to find out the qualities and skills required for great teachers of SEN.
Useful Links
O’Regan F (2005) Surviving and Succeeding in SEN Continuum International
O’Regan F (2006) Challenging Behaviours Teachers Pocketbooks
O’Regan F (2006) Troubleshooting Challenging Behaviours Continuum International
O’Regan F (2020) Supporting behaviour in the classroom: Sage publications limited
About Fintan O’Regan
Fintan was the Headteacher of the Centre Academy from 1996 -2002, which was the first specialist school in the UK for students between the ages of 7-19 specialising issues related to ADHD, ASD and ODD.
He is an associate lecturer for Leicester University, the National Association of Special Needs, the Institute of Education, the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre and the former Vice Chairman of the UK ADHD Network and of the European ADHD Alliance.
Fintan now works as trainer and consultant for schools and school support systems including, Social Services, Health, the Police and Foster carers with regards to providing behaviour management strategies for children and families struggling with SEND and behaviour issues.
Contact Fintan O’Regan
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