uh oh.. the tests have arrived. What to do what to do!
I'll study for an hour and then think about testing - only 10DPO so maybe shouldn't.
Camlet at the risk of offending UK teachers, SENCo's can and normally would be a teacher who 'just does the paperwork' a few courses, a bit training here and there. The teacher I worked 'for' hadn't got a clue about the little boy I worked with, expected him to conform to the class room rules and punish bad behaviour thinking he would get the hint and learn. It's why I quit in the end (other than to have a family) I couldn't stand how in annual reviews the teacher and head would sit there infront of the Educational Psychologists and spout nothing about the child but what the internet has told them or reworded my report, while I'm sat there knowing a damn sight more than them about the child and infact, actually care for the child's wellbeing but i'm told to go make the cuppa's or photocopy such and such. I'd had enough.
I was praised by one Ed Psyc towards the end who knew exactly what was going on and encouraged to train to get into the profession, which is what I'm doing. A Psychology degree and then on to do post grad Ed Psych.
It's all about education. Teachers and head teachers still need to learn but they need to get to know a child and their individual needs and realise that there isn't a blanket 'special needs' strategy.
It's frustrating for the minions (me) who really know what needs t put in place for the little ones but the hiarachy states I'm just the hired help who is called upon to remove the child when they become disruptive.
oooooh, I've gone off on one! lol I can understand your frustration and know exactly why you feel it Camlet!!
Sorry teachers reading this. I shouldn't generalise at all. I'm talking about the UK system and my experiences in two UK schools. Sorry if I've offended, it's just very frustrating.