Support children and young people with disabilities and special educational needs
Table of Contents
Case Study
You are a learning assistant in a Year 5 class with mixed ability and differing needs but no physical disabilities. A new child is joining the class next week. You are told she is bright and intelligent and she was born with only one hand. She copes well, and can do most things for herself. She uses a variety of aids to help secure objects where she would need two hands. The stump of her arm is usually concealed in the sleeve of her jumper. You meet with the class teacher and the Head of Key Stage to discuss what provision might need to be made for the girl and with the class to ensure she settles well. You are conscious that the class have swimming lessons on a Friday and the new student is a keen swimmer.
- How would you help the class adjust to the new student?
- How will you support the student’s needs in a sensitive way?
- What would you do to alleviate the parents' worries about their daughter starting a new school?
- Would this student need an Individual Education / Learning Plan?
It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the response you have chosen to this scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague and ask them to tell you if they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your tutor.