Richard Villa on inclusion

Magna, the ex-steelworks turned conference venue hosted Richard Villa for three days of high octane passion and inspirational sessions. Check Richard's website here. Anyone coming away untouched was probably not there in the first place. Which is the subject of another blog altogether. . .

Two main themes for me were; first, start with student's strengths; spend more time assessing qualities and be creative in adapting the pedagogy to fit. If we get it right for students with 'additional' needs (whatever that term really means??) we will inevitably make it better for every student. In time 'additional' becomes 'personal' and as such applies to every student, not simply those who slide off the bell-curve.

And second, involve young people. Friday had such a different energy provided by some wonderful students from Parkwood Academy. The 'Pride' group gave me another perspective and the three pupils representing the 'Leadship Academy' (see pic) were simply an inspiration.



Thanks to Richard for his energy, encouragement but most of all his acknowledgement of Friday's guests. I, for one, will keep many messages in mind and will endeavour to work in a more inclusive fashion from today onwards.

Therapeutic education, inclusion and neuroscience. . .

Thought provoking session at Sheffield University this morning; messages of trusting in our children's creativity and trusting in our children to make their own choices emerged through strands of SEAL, brain development and some hard-hitting global facts about exclusion. Made me feel ashamed and inspired at the very same time. Thanks to all three speakers and a special thank you to Professor Roger Slee for sharing his 'Happy School' photo from India; surely a model for all schools around the world!

After the first week of praise pod sessions at Oakwood the winning reason young people are being sent is. . . .

'support / kindness / understanding to others'

SEAL in action and lots of positive vibes in the library.
Ooops, good job i checked- 'vibes' came up as 'vices' on predictive! Must get a phone with querty keyboard.