Let's Talk Learning was officially launched at the Independent Schools Council (ISC) SENCo Conference.
We are working with Educational establishments to create a community based e-magazine for people to experience and share our tools, techniques and training, in an electronic world.
The ISC Conference, is an event principally for heads, SENCos and learning support workers in leading independent schools.
One of the most striking topics was the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and the fact that senior schools have to have a plan in place by December 4th and implemented by the end of this year. Areas covered were;
• Do the school's general plans take account of the need to make "reasonable adjustments"?
• Is the "responsible body" aware of their duties under the Disability Discrimination Act?
• Do senior members of staff take their responsibilities under the Act seriously?
• Are all staff aware of the duties, including managers, teaching staff, learning support assistants, catering staff, caretakers and others involved in providing or supporting learning?
• Are you sure that the policies covering admissions, education and associated services, and exclusions will not put disabled children at a substantial disadvantage?
• Has the school reviewed its policies, procedures and practices to ensure that it will not discriminate against disabled pupils or prospective pupils?
• Has the school begun the process of making "reasonable adjustments" in order to comply with the new law?
• Has the school held training on the law and/or broader issues of disability equality?
• Are there enough procedures in place to ensure that discrimination by staff will be picked up on and dealt with properly?
With more than a dozen leading speakers in key areas of Special Educational Needs, including Dr Victoria Joffe, Steve Haines and Pat Langham, the conference was lively, stimulating and informative. With a great ixture of expert panels and solo speakers, the conference debated the sector's questions and concerns, with many opportunities for delegates to participate.
