Jacqui P

About Me, My Expertise, Qualifications, and SEND Experience

I am a passionate and highly qualified educator with 28 years of experience working across
a range of educational settings. My roles have included Senior Leadership Team member,
SENDCo, Safeguarding Lead, Exam Access Arrangements Coordinator and Assessor, and
Specialist Dyslexia Practitioner. I hold a range of specialist qualifications, including Level 5
specialist literacy teacher and I am currently completing a Level 7 qualification in Dyslexia
Assessment and Report Writing, which enables me to diagnose dyslexia.
Over the course of my career, I have supported pupils with a wide range of special
educational needs and disabilities, including dyslexia, ADHD, autism spectrum conditions,
speech and language difficulties, and processing challenges. As well as certain medical
needs. This work has given me a strong foundation in inclusive teaching, and a deep
understanding of how to adapt learning to meet individual needs.

How I Teach Students with SEND (Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism, Speech & Language Difficulties, Processing Needs)

I use a personalised, structured, and supportive approach to teaching students with SEND.
Lessons are adapted to meet the individual learning profile and interest of each child, using
multi-sensory methods, visual aids, clear routines, and small, manageable steps. I create a
calm, consistent environment where students feel safe and understood, and I work closely
with families and other professionals to ensure joined-up support.
I also draw on my knowledge of assessment to identify specific barriers to learning and put
targeted interventions in place. For children with dyslexia, for example, I use evidence-based
literacy programmes and strategies that support phonological awareness, spelling, and
reading fluency.

How I Teach Maths

I am passionate about teaching maths and love helping children develop a positive
relationship with the subject. My approach is hands-on, practical, and highly visual, helping
learners build conceptual understanding rather than relying solely on rote learning. I break
down complex ideas into simple, logical steps and provide plenty of opportunities for guided
practice.
I use tailored strategies such as visual timetables, concrete manipulatives (like counters or
number lines), and memory aids to support working memory and processing difficulties. I
focus on building confidence and reducing anxiety by creating a low-pressure, supportive
environment.

How I Teach English

I use structured, phonics-based approaches that target decoding, spelling, and writing
fluency. I build writing skills by teaching planning, structure, and editing explicitly, using
visual organisers and scaffolded models.

I also focus on language development, vocabulary building, and reading comprehension,
selecting texts that are both accessible and engaging. Lessons are highly differentiated,
allowing students to progress at their own pace while still being challenged and supported.

How I Help Students Communicate

I use a range of strategies to support students with speech, language, and communication
needs, including visuals, simplified instructions, and structured routines. I work to build their
expressive and receptive language through targeted questioning, language modelling, and
supported conversation.
Creating a safe and encouraging space is key, where students feel confident to express
themselves, ask for help, and contribute to discussions. I also work collaboratively with
speech and language therapists when needed to support individual goals.

How I Help Students Engage with Learning

Engagement starts with connection. I take time to get to know each child—their interests,
strengths, and challenges—so I can make learning relevant and motivating. Lessons are
interactive and varied, with a focus on student voice and choice wherever possible.
I celebrate small successes and progress, using positive reinforcement and encouragement
to build intrinsic motivation. My goal is to help students feel capable, curious, and excited to
learn.

How I Make Lessons Fun

Fun is essential to learning! I incorporate games, creativity, hands-on activities, and
movement into my lessons. Whether it's a maths treasure hunt or a silly sentence-building
challenge, I aim to make every session enjoyable and memorable.
I also make use of themed learning, multimedia resources, and student-led activities to keep
energy and enthusiasm high, especially for learners who may have had negative
experiences in school.

How I Help Students with Focus, Attention, and Emotional Regulation

I support focus and attention by using clear visual schedules, task breakdowns, timers, and
consistent routines. For children with ADHD or attention difficulties, I include brain breaks,
movement, and sensory tools to help them stay regulated and engaged.
To support emotional regulation, I prioritise building strong relationships and trust. I use
calm, predictable communication and offer strategies like emotional check-ins, self-
regulation visuals, and a safe space for breaks. I help children understand their emotions
and develop the tools they need to manage them confidently.