These materials have been developed for use by any audience with an interest in the teaching of children and young people with severe learning difficulties (SLD); profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD) and/or complex learning difficulties and disabilities (CLDD). They are spread across four study levels to ensure the training resources cater for teachers with varying expertise, trainee teachers, teaching assistants and anyone with an interest in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Objectives of the training materials
These training materials were commissioned by the Teaching Agency in response to recommendations made in the Salt Review by the then Department for Children, Schools and Families in 2010. They are designed to:
- improve teachers’ knowledge, skills and understanding of severe learning difficulties (SLD), profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), and complex learning difficulties and disabilities (CLDD);
- help school staff to raise achievement for pupils with SLD, PMLD and CLDD;
- introduce trainees or mainstream school teachers to the benefits of teaching pupils with SLD, PMLD and CLDD.
Using the materials
Before using the materials, please ensure that you have not confused them with the advanced training materials for autism; dyslexia; speech, language and communication; emotional, social and behavioural difficulties; and moderate learning difficulties which were commissioned following the Lamb Inquiry.
Although the two sites are similar in appearance, they differ in purpose, subject matter and intended audience. Take time to compare and contrast to be clear from the outset which will best meet your needs.
The resources on the site are grouped in 16 modules. Choose individual modules to work through at the study level of your preference, or use the study planner to create a list of modules to meet your needs.
Review progress and the effectiveness of learning as you work through the modules by using the progress review tool.
To work without an internet connection at any point, or to incorporate resources into personalised training materials, individual modules can be downloaded for offline working.
SEND resources for teachers
As qualified, practising teachers any one of the training materials could be of interest or complement CPD. The materials provide guidance on study levels, but generally level C – and level D for more experienced teachers – should prove most appropriate.
The modules are grouped into four wider subject areas:
- the context of specialist teaching;
- specialist teaching strategies;
- specialist teaching procedure;
- collaboration and leadership.
Further details are available in the associated resources section.
