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PAGE 35
1.17 Bathgate Academy, West
Lothian
Lifelong
Learning Programme - A Partnership Approach
Bathgate Academy
Lifelong Learning Programme
- A Partnership Approach
As an LSSN Teacher who has
for several years been supporting SN pupils in the SVS class I am well
aware of how much benefit these pupils derive from this course. It is
one subject where they can fully integrate and feel that they are on an
equal footing. There is a lot of practical work which SN pupils can be
taught to cope with. Realising that they "can do" builds up their confidence
and increases self-esteem and encourages them to attempt even more challenges
with the opportunity of reinforcement of skills acquired in a different
educational context. I am also aware that all SN pupils need extra time
to learn new things, to carry out tasks whether written or practical and
also to adjust to new situations. This time is just not available in the
main classroom situation - and so the partnership began.
This year Enterprise was piloted
with a small group of SN pupils. Next session in the RCB (Base for pupils
with SEN), Enterprise will be timetabled for all pupils in 1st and 2nd
years. As well as improving Core Skills and familiarising pupils with
various computer programmes it encourages working as a team, less dependence
on the teacher and more independent thinking. We hope that as a result
pupils are more prepared when they choose SVS as a Standard Grade and
have a good chance of achieving a reasonable grade.
The timetable in the RCB provides
the flexibility for pupils to "catch up" if they require, in order to
keep up with the others in the class, and for the teaching or practice
of any Core Skills. For example SVS is timetabled three times a week and
in the RCB there could be another three periods set aside where the pupil
can be taught new skills, or coached in certain procedures and allowed
time to practise in order to reinforce these newly acquired skills. This
means that the pupil is much more confident in the SVS class.
Using the telephone is one
example of something that has to be practised. After initial role play
to build up confidence, pupils are encouraged to make 'real calls'. These
are often to arrange other aspects of the course, eg arranging interviews,
asking for information etc. Pupils are prepared for life after school.
They have the opportunity to experience many situations, eg The Home,
Community Placement, Community Event, Leisure etc. The SVS Partnership
with Support for Learning provides pupils with SN the extra time and support
that they need to boost their confidence.
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