Lena A

About me, my expertise, qualifications and SEND experience

I am a teacher who has worked with SEND students in my classes, planning lessons in line with EHCPs to support their individual needs. I have experience teaching children with autism, including PDA, ADHD, SEMH, SPD, and physical disabilities. With a PGCE and QTS from the University of Oxford and a Bachelor’s from Queen Mary University, I am currently studying for a Master’s in Education Technology at UCL to further develop my skills. I aim to build trusting relationships with students and work closely with parents and other professionals to provide personalized and supportive learning environments.

How I teach students with PDA and Autism

When teaching students with PDA and those on the autism spectrum, I prioritize understanding what each child can do rather than focusing on limitations. Many children with PDA experience anxiety that they cannot easily express, often leading to what might be perceived as defiance. I use mood boards and clear, visual resources to help students identify and communicate their feelings. It’s essential to give them a sense of control by allowing negotiation within structured boundaries, reducing anxiety and promoting cooperation. I tailor lessons based on their EHCP reports and collaborate closely with parents and multidisciplinary teams to build trust, ensure consistency, and address each child’s unique sensory and emotional needs. I respect their interests and hobbies as a pathway to build rapport and engagement.

How I teach Maths / English

For Maths, I prioritize practical, real-life learning experiences such as budgeting or meal planning to help students grasp abstract concepts in a meaningful way. I use visual supports like whiteboards to help students organize their thoughts, calculations, and spellings, reducing overwhelm and building confidence. Additionally, I incorporate activities like sorting and categorizing numbers or shapes to reinforce understanding through active engagement. In English, I employ strategies like mind mapping to enhance writing and comprehension, combined with multisensory approaches and chunked, clear language to support understanding. I always tailor lessons to be relatable and incorporate each student’s interests to boost motivation and engagement.

How I help students communicate

Communication is key for students with SEND, especially those on the autism spectrum or with PDA, who may struggle to express their feelings or needs verbally. I use visuals, mood boards, and structured communication tools to support expression. I encourage alternative forms of communication like gestures, drawings, or technology-assisted methods when needed. My approach creates a safe space for students to share their thoughts at their own pace, which helps reduce frustration and build stronger connections.

How I help students engage with learning

To keep students engaged, I break down tasks into manageable chunks with clear, simple instructions. Movement breaks and sensory activities are incorporated regularly to help maintain focus and regulate sensory input. I use praise and reward systems tailored to each child’s preferences, reinforcing positive behaviors and achievements. Lessons are planned to be interactive and incorporate student interests to sustain motivation.

How I make lessons fun

I believe that learning should be enjoyable and stress-free. I use games, songs, and creative activities to make lessons lively and memorable. For example, making up songs to learn multiplication or using hands-on projects tied to real-life scenarios helps students connect learning with their everyday world. A warm, patient, and positive attitude helps create an encouraging environment where students feel safe to take risks and explore.

How I help students with focus, attention and emotional regulation

Understanding that anxiety and sensory overload can impact focus, I carefully monitor each student’s needs and adjust the learning environment accordingly. This may include quiet spaces, sensory breaks, or specific sensory tools tailored to their sensory profile. I work closely with parents and professionals to develop sensory plans and emotional regulation strategies, giving students the tools to manage stress and build resilience. By building trust and allowing space for self-expression, I help students develop greater independence and emotional control.