Programme 2 Outline

Teachers

The second programme of Count Me In looks at what happens when disabled children are included in mainstream schools and at how a structured, practical, approach can be supported – what inclusion really means, how teachers cope with the extra load, and what the benefits are. ‘Letting off steam’ sequences punctuate the programme, exposing common or erroneous views such as the preference for traditional methods of working alone with the classroom door closed. These sequences also reveal widespread worries such as how to communicate with deaf or blind students.

The programme shows the practical management for inclusion and how the curriculum can be supported, looking at how inclusion support workers (ISWs) and learning support assistants (LSAs) are deployed in the classroom, as well as in preparation, setting up and administrative situations. Technology, woodwork and other subjects that could present disabled children with problems are looked at, together with how teachers can address such physical obstacles. Targets, results, league tables, and the opportunity for pupils to gain qualifications are also tackled. One common anxiety – actual physical access to school buildings – is spoken about, support systems are mentioned, and advice on funding is given.