Susan

My experience with special educational needs

I was a Science teacher in a school for pupils with Additional Support Needs for twenty years, and so I have lots of experience teaching young people with a variety of needs. I also ran Nurture groups for many years. The needs of the pupils ranged from moderate learning difficulties, through to severe autism, as well as severe and complex physical and learning needs. I have taught from Milestones/ Early Level through to Secondary qualification level, and so I have an appreciation that everyone is different and requires tailored learning experiences. I tutor adults with autism, taking them into the community to learn life skills such as budgeting, safely planning a journey, and cooking. I also run STEM clubs for primary aged children. A good number of the children who attend have a learning need of some kind, so it is my role to help them learn and engage with the activities by differentiating and tailoring the session appropriately.

A bit about me

As a parent of three teenagers, I understand the challenges faced by young people (and their parents!). I have a young adopted nephew with additional needs, and attachment difficulties. This has helped me understand the challenges of having a child with Special needs from the point of view of the family as well as school. I love to try new things, so as well as being a teacher, I run my own Science club business and volunteer at the Citizen's Advice Bureau. In my spare time, I love to sew my own clothes (with varying results!), read and write. I love to talk to and find out about other people, so my sewing group and book club allow me to do this, while pursuing my interests!

My teaching philosophy

As a trained Nurture teacher, I take a holistic approach to teaching. I believe that relationships are key. It is my role to make the young person feel comfortable before they are able to learn. I always start the lesson with a check in chat, or short game depending on the young person. I try to make lessons as practical as possible (even online if we can!), with lots of interaction from the student. Depending on the age and needs of the young person, I may incorporate sensory activities, games, or challenges. Making the student feel comfortable and able to learn is at the core of my teaching and so I take my cues from them. The lessons can be adapted as we go to fit with the needs and wants of the pupil. One size definitely does not fit all!

Schedule

Tutoring specialisation

I’m providing tutoring sessions for students with these educational needs: