Olivia B

I hold an honours  degree specialising in disability along with a PGCE and  QTS. I have extensive experience working with individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome, autism, down syndrome, ADHD, global developmental delay and various attachment, emotional and communication difficulties. My passion lies in building strong, trusting relationships with students, as I believe this is the foundation for effective learning. I take the time to understand each child at their own pace, meeting them where they are at, to support their growth and development.

How I teach students with SEND

As a primary school teacher and a professional who has worked with individuals with intellectual disabilities, I have consistently adapted my approach to meet individual needs, particularly when working with students who exhibit behaviors often labeled as “challenging.” To me, these behaviors are a form of communication that must be understood and addressed with care. My goal is to truly listen to the underlying needs and respond thoughtfully and professionally when creating a step by step program of education and support .

I believe that when students feel trusted and valued, they are more likely to engage and strive toward their best. While understanding a diagnosis is important, I ensure it doesn’t define or limit a child, recognising that each individual is unique, and not everyone with the  same diagnosis is actually the same. I am  well-versed in pedagogy, continually drawing on this knowledge to provide the best educational support possible.

How I Help Students Communicate

I believe communication is the key to unlocking each student’s full potential. My approach focuses on understanding each student’s individual communication style, whether verbal or non-verbal. I work patiently to create a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves, no matter their abilities. I can use tools like visual aids, social stories, and alternative communication methods such as Makaton or PECS, to help students develop their communication skills. By building strong relationships based on trust, I encourage students to communicate their needs, emotions, and ideas in ways that are meaningful to them. My goal is to foster confidence in self-expression, so students can effectively communicate in the learning environment and beyond.

How I Make Lessons Fun

Making lessons enjoyable is at the heart of how I engage students. I incorporate a variety of interactive activities, games, and creative projects to bring learning to life. By using students’ interests and hobbies, I tailor lessons that resonate with them, ensuring they stay engaged and motivated. Whether it’s integrating hands-on learning, using technology, or creating a playful challenge, I keep the atmosphere appropriate to the child’s sensory needs. This might even mean sitting calmly with the child and just ‘holding the space’.

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

Helping students manage focus, attention, and emotional regulation is central to my teaching strategy. I use techniques such as breaking tasks into manageable steps, incorporating sensory breaks, and employing calming strategies like mindfulness or breathing exercises. For students who struggle with attention, I design short, varied activities to maintain engagement and gradually build their focus. Emotional regulation is supported by teaching coping strategies, such as identifying emotions, using visual timers ( if this suits the child), or developing other strategies attuned to the child’s needs. By fostering a calm, structured and responsive environment, I help students develop the skills to regulate their emotions, maintain attention, and make progress.

How I teach Maths / English

When teaching math and English I focus on creating a personalised and supportive learning experience tailored to each student’s unique abilities. I break down complex concepts into manageable steps, using hands-on, visual aids, and multi-sensory learning techniques to make subjects like math and English accessible and engaging. For math, I often use real-life examples, manipulatives, and interactive tools to help students grasp abstract ideas, like numbers and problem-solving.

In English, I incorporate phonics, storytelling, and visual cues to enhance reading comprehension, writing, and communication skills.

I adapt my teaching methods to meet the individual learning styles of my students, whether they need extra time, alternative communication methods, or repetition to master concepts. I ensure lessons are interactive and relevant, building confidence through positive reinforcement and celebrating small victories. By fostering a supportive, patient, and understanding environment, I empower students to progress in both math and English, regardless of the challenges they face.