Quality First Teaching (QFT) is at the heart of effective support for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). It is the approach that ensures all pupils, regardless of their individual needs, receive high-quality teaching that enables them to succeed in the classroom. For pupils with SEND, QFT means adapting teaching strategies to meet diverse learning requirements while maintaining high expectations for all students.
The key principle behind QFT is that it is inclusive, meaning that it benefits all learners. Effective QFT focuses on adapting lessons to ensure accessibility for everyone, including those with SEND. This may involve using differentiated instruction, adjusting the pace of lessons, or providing additional support through teaching assistants. However, it also requires that teachers have a deep understanding of the learning barriers that SEND pupils face and are equipped to address these barriers through tailored teaching strategies.
For SEND pupils, QFT involves personalising learning to meet individual needs. This could include:
- Differentiating tasks and activities to cater to various abilities.
- Offering visual aids, audio resources, and assistive technology to support different learning styles.
- Providing additional time for tasks or breaking lessons into smaller chunks to ensure all pupils can follow and participate fully.
A key aspect of QFT is the use of scaffolding—temporary support that enables students to build their skills and independence. This might involve modelling tasks, offering prompts, or providing additional resources to help students access the curriculum. Scaffolding gradually fades as students develop their confidence and ability, allowing them to achieve greater independence.
The role of the SENDCo is essential in ensuring that QFT is implemented effectively across the school. SENDCos work with teachers to identify the strategies that best support pupils with SEND and to ensure that these strategies are consistently used in the classroom. They also provide professional development and training for staff on how to deliver QFT to SEND pupils, fostering a culture of inclusion throughout the school.
QFT is not just about teaching methods—it also involves creating a supportive learning environment. This includes:
- Ensuring physical accessibility, such as providing seating arrangements that allow for easy movement and visibility.
- Creating a positive classroom atmosphere where students feel valued, confident, and motivated to learn.
- Using behaviour management strategies that support emotional regulation, helping pupils feel secure and ready to learn.
For schools aiming to improve their SEND provision, adopting Quality First Teaching is a crucial step. It ensures that every student, including those with SEND, receives the support they need to achieve their potential.
To explore more about Quality First Teaching and how it can transform the learning experiences of SEND pupils, get the SEND Guide 2024. It’s packed with practical tips, strategies, and expert advice for implementing QFT in your school. Purchase your copy now and start creating an inclusive classroom where every pupil can thrive.
For further insights into creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment, sign up for more details about the SEND Guide 2024 today and begin enhancing your SEND practice with proven strategies and expert advice. Learn more here.