SEND and the Role of the Teaching Assistant (Summer Term 2024)

SEND and the Role of the Teaching Assistant Training Programme Summer 2024

This training programme has been designed for teaching assistants to support the development of knowledge and skills around working with pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). It is suitable for teaching assistants working with all age groups in both mainstream and specialist settings. The programme is being provided in partnership between Fusion SEND Hub and Sheffield Inclusion Task Force.

The programme will be delivered as two half day morning sessions on 23rd April and 18th June 2024 - 9am-12pm at Learn Sheffield Training and Development Hub, Suit 6, Albion House, Savile Street, Sheffield, S4 7UD. The programme costs £150 per TA. Attendees will be emailed a workbook and participants are required to complete practical ‘gap tasks’ between sessions and make reflection notes in their workbook. Once the sessions have been successfully completed, participants can submit their completed workbook if they wish to receive a certificate of programme completion.

Programme Content:

Session One – What is SEND?

An introduction to the programme and learning about what is meant by special education needs and disabilities, including the SEND Code of Practice.

Session Two – The Role of the TA

Exploring the key roles and responsibilities of teaching assistants, and how we can support pupils’ learning and development.

Session Three – Building Relationships with Pupils

Learning about the importance of developing supportive and empowering relationships with pupils, and the impact this can have on their success.

Session Four - Behaviour and De-escalation

Exploring some of the key reasons for behaviour challenges, and some useful approaches to supporting pupils to manage their behaviour and improve emotional and social development.

Session Five - Introduction to Autism and ADHD

An introduction to neurodiversity, looking specifically at autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This will include some of the key features and ways to support pupils.

Session Six - Introduction to Speech and Language and Cognition and Learning Needs

An introduction to speech and language and cognition and learning needs, looking specifically at some of the main diagnoses, how these can affect pupils and some key approaches for supporting them.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Learn Sheffield, Savile Street, Sheffield, United Kingdom