Hello everyone,
Welcome to this special edition of the SENsible Magazine, dedicated to Speech and Language! This April 2024 issue is packed with expert advice, strategies, and resources tailored for SENCOs supporting primary and secondary students. It’s a unique opportunity to dive deep into topics such as selective mutism, developmental language disorder, supporting multilingual learners, and the critical aspect of access arrangements.
Our guest editors, the speech and language therapy team at Speech & Language Link, have curated a wealth of content aimed at empowering SENCOs, teachers, and TAs. You’ll find practical guidance on enhancing your pupils’ speech, language, and communication skills, ensuring every child can reach their full potential. This edition also marks a special occasion as Abigail and Gavin celebrate 20 years of marriage and embark on a holiday. Their dedication to supporting the SENCO community continues to inspire us all.
Discover innovative strategies to address common barriers to learning, such as attention, organisation, and processing speed. Explore the transformative power of understanding and celebrating neurodiversity in our classrooms. Learn from case studies that highlight the profound impact of early identification and intervention for conditions like developmental language disorder.
This issue also addresses the unique challenges and opportunities presented by Key Stage 3, a pivotal time for reinforcing speech and language skills. Additionally, gain insights into the nuanced world of selective mutism, understanding its complexities and how to support affected students effectively.
For those seeking further professional development, don’t miss our featured CPD opportunities and resources designed to bolster your expertise in supporting pupils with speech, language, and communication needs.
As we strive to foster inclusive and supportive learning environments, this edition of SENsible Magazine serves as a valuable resource for the SENCO community. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of children and young people facing speech and language challenges.
Happy SENCOing,
Violet Nest.