Sharing SEND expertise to enhance Initial Teacher Training

The Trust was delighted to be invited to deliver a SEND-focused training session at St Mary’s University for staff who deliver their Primary and Secondary Initial Teacher Training (ITT) courses. Suzanna Challenger, Head of Policy, Research and Reporting delivered the session focussing on teaching and supporting children with SEND.

OHC&AT has a thriving partnership with the School of Education at St Mary’s University, working together to enhance SEND specialist knowledge within Initial Teacher Education. The aim of the session was to support those who help prepare trainee teachers and reflecting on the quality and impact of their curriculum.

Taking inclusion as its theme, the session looked at how OHC&AT works as a family of specialist providers within the context of developments in learner need, the changing sectorial landscape and financial/regulatory pressures.

Suzanna described the session as positive and beneficial, saying, “I really enjoyed this opportunity to meet with teacher educators and discuss professional practice; sharing knowledge is so mutually beneficial and highlights the common purpose of educators across all settings, beyond the imaginary SEND/mainstream binary.”

Mary Nkune, Head of ITT Partnerships at St Mary’s University, echoed these sentiments: “The session was incredibly insightful, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. It has really encouraged staff to reflect on their approach to inclusive practice, both in the way they deliver sessions to trainees and in the design and content of the curriculum itself. It is always inspiring to hear from leaders like you who are making such a significant impact in schools. Your expertise, passion and practical insights shone through and was greatly valued by all the team.”