Online SEND and Teacher CPD courses

“The first section of the course with information about hearing loss and levels, the different types of hearing aid equipment and ways of assessing was useful and interesting. The case studies were interesting to watch and to hear the opinions and thoughts of young deaf people, however, I found this section to be less relevant to my role. The children in the examples were all older and more capable, whereas many of the deaf children we see have more complex needs. However, I did find it particularly useful in this instance to hear the parents’ views and to be reminded of how overwhelming it can all be at this stage and the number of professionals involved within a child's life. It has made me think about the environment in home visits and currently video calls, and the importance of joint visiting with specialist teachers and working together.

“I enjoyed the course; I did have some understanding about deafness before I started the course. I will now use my new knowledge and pass this on to my colleagues, so we can all help our pupil to become more independent in her school and personal life.

“The main thing I have taken from this course, among many others, is how to be very focused and specific in the setting of targets and interventions. I have realised I had a tendency to be quite broad in my outcomes - simply saying a child will learn a new sound - and didn't break the targets down in the necessary components. My tutor has been invaluable in helping me with this and it will definitely have a positive impact on both my teaching and my target setting for my TA.

“I have better understanding on how the classroom needs setting up and why you set it up for the child. I now understand what resources I will need for the child to grow and flourish through his school life Also, I am able to talk about visual impairment more confidently.