Blog Post

Adaptive Teaching: Empowering SEN Students for Success 

Adaptive teaching is a pedagogical approach that tailors educational experiences to meet the diverse needs of all students, particularly those with Special Educational Needs (SEN). By anticipating and responding to individual learning requirements, adaptive teaching can support an inclusive environment where every pupil can thrive. 

Unlike traditional differentiation, which often involves creating separate tasks for different ability groups, adaptive teaching emphasises flexibility within the classroom. Teachers modify their strategies to ensure all students work towards the same learning objectives, providing support as needed without lowering expectations. This approach promotes a growth mindset and prevents the capping of potential.  

Adaptive teaching offers many benefits, particularly to those with SEN. These include: 

Enhanced Engagement and Participation: Adaptive teaching strategies, such as scaffolding and the use of visual aids, make learning more accessible and engaging for all, but particularly SEN students. This inclusivity encourages active participation and reduces feelings of isolation or shame. 

Improved Academic Outcomes: By providing tailored support, adaptive teaching helps close attainment gaps, enabling SEN students to achieve their full academic potential. This approach ensures that no pupil is left behind.  

Development of Social Skills: Inclusive classrooms that employ adaptive teaching support the building of improved social interactions among students. SEN pupils benefit from collaborative learning opportunities, incidentally enhancing their communication skills and building peer relationships. 

Cultivation of Independence: Adaptive teaching encourages self-directed learning, empowering SEN students to take ownership of their education. This autonomy builds confidence and prepares them for future challenges. 

To successfully integrate adaptive teaching, you will need to look at: 

Assessing Individual Needs: Regularly evaluate each student’s strengths and areas for development to inform instructional planning. 

Flexible Lesson Planning: Design lessons that can be easily adjusted based on student responses and understanding. 

Collaboration: Engage with teaching assistants, specialists, and parents to create a fully inclusive support system for SEN students. 

Ongoing Professional Development: Attend workshops and training sessions to stay informed about effective adaptive teaching practices. 

Embracing adaptive teaching not only enhances the educational experience for SEN students but also enriches the classroom dynamic as a whole. By committing to this approach, you can ensure that all pupils have the opportunity to succeed. 

At the upcoming SEND Leadership Conference on 4th March 2025, Beccie Hawes, CEO and Head of Service for Cadmus Inclusive, will deliver a keynote titled “Adaptive Teaching for Pupils with SEN: What is it and How Do You Do It?” With extensive experience across mainstream and specialist settings, Beccie will provide practical strategies for implementing adaptive teaching in schools. Her session will equip delegates with tools to create supportive and effective learning environments for SEN pupils. 

Sensory Toolkits

06/15/2023

A sensory toolkit serves as a valuable resource to support individuals with sensory processing difficulties. Following the webinar from Beccie Hawes on Tuesday here is a basic guide to effectively using a sensory toolkit: 

  • Identify sensory needs: Some individuals may exhibit sensitivity to particular sensory inputs, such as loud noises or bright lights, while others may actively seek sensory stimulation through activities like fidgeting or deep pressure. 
  • Select appropriate tools: Carefully choose a range of tools that can effectively address the sensory needs identified. A sensory toolkit can include items such as noise-cancelling headphones, sunglasses, weighted blankets, fidget toys, stress balls, chewing necklaces, calming scents and much more. 
  • Create a portable kit: Gather the selected tools into a portable kit that can be easily carried and accessed whenever required. Use a bag or container with compartments to keep the items organised and readily available. This enables the individual to have their sensory tools accessible at home, school, or anywhere they may need it. 
  • Educate and explain: Help individuals understand that these tools are intended to support their sensory needs and provide comfort. Provide instructions on how and when to utilise each tool effectively. You will find that many people are able to identify what they need and when they need it without guidance. Others will need to be taught and then supported to develop this skill. 
  • Introduce self-regulation techniques: These may include deep breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, progressive muscle relaxation, or other calming strategies that assist in managing sensory experiences and emotions. 
  • Encourage communication and self-advocacy: Foster an open line of communication with the individual using the sensory toolkit. Help them to express their sensory needs and preferences and assist in developing their self-advocacy skills to request the necessary tools or accommodations that will benefit them. 
  • Practice trial and error: Sensory needs can vary significantly from person to person, so it is essential to experiment with different tools and strategies. Explore the toolkit and make changes as necessary to ensure it adequately meets sensory needs. 
  • Incorporate routines: Integrate the use of sensory tools into daily routines and activities. For example, if an individual finds it helpful to use a fidget toy during classroom tasks, establish a routine in which they are allowed to use it to support their need. 
  • Evaluate and adapt: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the sensory toolkit. Seek feedback from the individual, check what is working well and identify areas that may require improvement. Adapt the toolkit accordingly to meet evolving sensory needs. 

Ultimately, the goal of a sensory toolkit is to support individuals in managing their sensory experiences and promoting self-regulation. By understanding their sensory needs and providing appropriate tools, you can create a more comfortable and engaging environment for them.