Tips on Applying to US university

The deadline date for most US Universities has passed and students await the outcomes with some trepidation. Those who have applied for an EARLY DECISION will not have to wait too long but the REGULAR DECISION applicants will have to wait until early summer 2018 before they can plan their university experience for Autumn 2018.

For those students in year 12, it is important that they begin to prepare their applications over the Christmas Vacation.

Research your options:

Find a college/ university that best suits your needs.

Do not try to match yourself to the university but find the institution that best suits you priorities and goals

The best university is the one that meets your academic, financial and personal needs Prepare for the Admissions Tests

These tests [SAT or ACT] are idiosyncratic and need some preparation Finance Your Studies

Studying in the USA can be expensive $60000-00 per year

It can be TOTALLY FREE.

Students will need to apply for scholarships/ financial aid at the same time as applying for admission.

Consider the requirements for a STUDENT VISA.  The requirements are straightforward but preparation and advice is essential. 

• Students must be eligible for entry into the USA.

• They need to have an offer of a place. 

• They will need to be able to support themselves whilst studying in the USA.

• They will require a good standard of English [to access study materials/ lectures].

•  please contact The Independent Education Consultants

If you would like to speak to Phil about how he can help with your US application Email claire@independenteducationconsultants.co.uk  01865 522066 for an informal discussion on how we can help. For more information visit www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

How to Get The Most From Your Child's School Report

Your child’s school report is much more than a termly record of your child’s classroom input and development, to be filed away in a cupboard. It’s an invaluable tool in helping you and your child to review and set academic and extra-curricular goals.

As part of our study skills work with children, we regularly go through school reports with students, helping them identify areas where they should be congratulated and other areas where they can improve. If it helps, these can be put in to a simple two column chart, so they can quickly identify their strengths and areas for improvement.

Remember, praise comes first for things they’ve done well, goals they’ve met and achievements to be proud of. Then it’s time to look closely at the areas that need improvement and take time to discuss these – your child will probably know which ones need seriously addressing and they may surprise you with their insight.  Ask them to volunteer thoughts as they are far more likely to buy into points they’ve raised themselves. Between you, pick out and agree upon 4 or 5 areas to target as goals for the next report.  

Needless to say, there is a level of sensitivity involved in this exercise, so be conscious of the language and phrases you use – try saying things like:

 “Your English and History look great! But some of the other subjects are disappointing – what’s different about those classes?”

“It’s good to hear you’re speaking out in class, and to see that you’re doing well with homework. Let’s work on revision over the rest of term.”

Your target list then becomes ‘Objectives For Next Term.’   Print these out and display them somewhere your child will see, such as close to their desk or on the fridge. 

As the term continues try not to nag, but do give them a gentle nudge/reminder when appropriate. Ask them how they feel it’s going, but pick your timing – often a casual chat over supper is more effective than a sit-down review!   

Use parents’ evening as an opportunity to discuss if there has been an improvement with their teachers.   This is a good time to review the objectives list with your child – are there any that you both feel have been achieved?  Are there any still going unaddressed?  Remember praise is effective, but don’t overdo it or give it where undeserved.   

At the end of term, review their new report alongside the old one – actively seek out signs of improvement in areas that appear on your goals list. Reward and congratulate.   However, don’t let your child be disheartened if they feel they have achieved a goal but it’s not reflected in their report – assure them you know they were working hard and if appropriate speak to their teacher for further feedback.

When setting your objectives be realistic about improvement.

Here are some sample goals – your child will have his or her own areas to improve on, but these might help with inspiration:

Music Grades:  See if you can pass that grade 3 for Singing.  Speak to your music teacher about trying for grades in Piano.

Reading: You will try to read at least 2 of The Dark Material books by the end of half term. If you run out of books on your kindle, come and ask me to download more for you. At least 30 minutes of reading a day is the minimum!

Unit test revision and highlighting key-facts for subjects like History. Use a highlighter pen to emphasise key-facts and words to remember. We agreed you would spend some extra time revising for unit tests to ensure you get the best results possible.

Grades: We are aiming for 5 B’s and 3A’s and almost all 5’s for effort. You will focus particularly on Sciences, Spanish and RS.

Activities- choir, football, plus you will choose two more clubs, when you know what is available.

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This weeks blog was written by Claire Coker and Catherine Stoker, who regularly work with children, helping them develop their study skills.  If your child needs some encouragement with their school work, contact our team to see how we can help. 

Email claire@independenteducationconsultants.co.uk  01865 522066 for an informal discussion on how we can help.
For more information visit www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

When to apply for US University - is Early decision or Early Action right for you?

Our guest blog is written by Phil Garner, expert in making applications to the US. 

Many US Universities offer an option for students to apply EARLY DECISION or EARLY ACTION.

Early decision versus early action 

Early decision plans are binding — a student who is accepted as an ED applicant must attend the college. Early action plans are nonbinding — students receive an early response to their application but do not have to commit to the college until the normal reply date of May 1.

Some 450 colleges have early decision or early action plans, and some have both. Some colleges offer a nonbinding option called single-choice early action, under which applicants may not apply ED or EA to any other college..

If you are considering applying Early Decision then:

• Apply early (usually in November) to first-choice college.
• You will receive an admission decision from the college well in advance of the usual notification date (usually by December).
• You MUST agree to attend the college if accepted and offered a financial aid package that is considered adequate by the family.
• You can apply to only one college early decision.
• You may still apply to other colleges under regular admission plans.
• You MUST withdraw all other applications if accepted by ED.
• You will need to send a nonrefundable deposit well in advance of  May 1.

If you are going to apply Early Action then:

• You should apply early.
• You should receive an admission decision early in the admission cycle (usually in January or February).
• You must consider acceptance offer but you do not have to commit upon receipt.
• You can still apply to other colleges under regular admission plans.
• You must give the college a decision no later than the May 1 national response date.

Who should apply early?

Applying to an ED or EA plan is most appropriate for a student who:

• Has researched colleges extensively.
• Is absolutely sure that the college is the first choice.
• Has found a college that is a strong match academically, socially and geographically.
• Meets or exceeds the admission profile for the college for SAT® scores, GPA and class rank.
• Has an academic record that has been consistently solid over time.

Applying to an ED or EA plan is not appropriate for a student who:

• Has not thoroughly researched colleges.
• Is applying early just to avoid stress and paperwork.
• Is not fully committed to attending the college.
• Is applying early only because friends are.
• Needs a strong senior fall semester to bring grades up.

The benefits of applying early

There are benefits for a student who has a definite first-choice college, applying early has many benefits besides possibly increasing the chance of getting in. Applying early lets the student:

• Reduce stress by cutting the time spent waiting for a decision.
• Save the time and expense of submitting multiple applications.
• Gain more time, once accepted, to look for housing and otherwise prepare for college.
• Reassess options and apply elsewhere if not accepted.

The drawbacks of applying early

Pressure to decide: Committing to one college puts pressure on students to make serious decisions before they've explored all their options.

Reduced financial aid opportunities: Students who apply under ED plans receive offers of admission and financial aid simultaneously and so will not be able to compare financial aid offers from other colleges. For students who absolutely need financial aid, applying early may be a risky option.

Time crunch for other applications: Most colleges do not notify ED and EA applicants of admission until December 15. Because of the usual deadlines for applications, this means that if a student is rejected by the ED college, there are only two weeks left to send in other applications. Encourage those of your students who are applying early to prepare other applications as they wait to receive admission decisions from their first-choice college. 

Relaxing: Applicants who learn early that they have been accepted into a college may feel that, their goal accomplished, they have no reason to work hard for the rest of the year. Early-applying students should know that colleges may rescind offers of admission should their expected grades drop.

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Are you interested in going to the US for university then contact us and we can arrange for you to speak to Phil and explain how he can help you make a successful application.
Email claire@independenteducationconsultants.co.uk  01865 522066 for an informal discussion on how we can help.
For more information visit www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

TIPS FOR STARTING A NEW SCHOOL

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Thanks to Sally Markowska for these great tips for starting a new school:

Have a positive attitude! Yes, joining a new school is a challenge BUT embrace the adventure. Remember the times you have tried something new before and how you survived

·       Remember you will not be the only new pupil: Others will be feeling exactly like you!

·       Before term starts: Have you got details of any pupils already at the school? It is worth contacting them informally to ask any burning questions you may have and/or to meet up. Even exchanging emails/texts would mean you already know someone at the school.

·       Be confident or at least pretend to be! Hold your head high as you walk in those gates for the first time.

·       SMILE at all the people you meet: It has an immediate effect on others and you will feel more positive too.

·       Have some opening ice-breaking questions ready: ‘Hi, what is your name?’ or ‘I am new and have no idea what I am supposed to be doing now. Do you?’

·       Timetable: Does it make sense? Do you understand where to go for each lesson? Do not be afraid to ask someone, even another pupil walking down the corridor- they were in your shoes once!

·       Break and lunchtimes: Be prepared for these. Ask others where they go for break/lunch and ask if you can go along on the first day. Don’t be shy!

·       In the first lessons: Introduce yourself to the people who sit near you, join in the discussions, try to ask and answer questions. You will feel better about yourself if you can but do not despair if it is all too challenging in the first few days!

·       Learn the names of the teachers who are responsible for your well-being: You should know who to turn to if you have a problem or feel unwell.

·       If the first day is difficult: Remind yourself that it is early days and things WILL improve.


·       Be proud of yourself at the end of the day: Congratulate yourself on surviving your first day! This is the beginning of something exciting…

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We offer a wide range of services and expert advice on your child's education. If you'd like to speak to Sally or any of our other expert consultants contact us:
Email claire@independenteducationconsultants.co.uk  01865 522066 for an informal discussion on how we can help.
For more information visit www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

Affordable University in the USA for British Students

This blog is by Phil Garner our consultant who specialises in US university applications. 

Last year over 10,000 students went to study in the USA, the highest number ever. So what is it that’s attracting more and more UK students to study at University in America?

There are many reasons to choose the US for university and these can include, academic excellence, the huge variety of educational institutions, the advanced technology available to its students and the campus experience.

However for many students it is about a straightforward evaluation of the fees and whether the money well spent in the UK when comparing the academic standards, tutor-student ratios, professor contact time, extracurricular activities and world class facilities, which often exceed many UK universities. For others, it is the attraction of many generous scholarships that many well-funded US Colleges/ Universities offer to international students and you do not need to be an outstanding academic or elite athlete to be eligible.

Last year, many British students studied in the USA. These students had adequate funding before they were approved to study in the US. Don't let funding get in your way; student loans and scholarships can help you cover:

· Tuition & Fees

· Books & Supplies

· Food & Groceries

· Room and Board

· Entertainment

· Travel & Transportation

· Clothing & Toiletries

· Saving & Investments

If you find yourself still struggling with a funding gap, it's not too late to get money with an international student loan or a scholarship!  You may find that your education in the USA is TOTALLY FREE!

If you would like to learn more about how Phil can help you apply to a US university contact Claire at consultants@independenteducationconsultants.co.uk 

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We offer a wide range of services and expert advice on your child's education.
Email claire@independenteducationconsultants.co.uk or contact Claire on 01865 522066 for an informal discussion on how we can help.
For more information visit www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

How to Survive A Level Results Day 2017

This blog on How To Survive A level Results Day is by Higher Education Consultant Sally Markowska, an expert in university applications. 

• Do not go to bed very late the night before Thursday August 17th. This is going to be a long, significant day, whatever your results. You will need to remain calm, cool and collected as you may need to make quick decisions.
• Ask a parent or mature friend to make themselves available to you either in person or on the phone; whatever way the results go, you will need someone to share tears of joy or pain.
• Get your UCAS log in details ready the night before- you will need these and you do not want to be scrabbling around for them.
• It would help to have ready the telephone numbers of the direct lines to the admissions’ departments of your firm and insurance places; if you need to speak to someone at these places, you will have the data ready.
• Make sure your mobile phone is charged.
• At 8am UCAS Track will spring to life: your firm choice may confirm your place (it will say UNCONDITIONAL) OR it may not. Do NOT panic if you cannot get online or your universities haven’t posted anything yet. Remember UCAS will not post your exam results but may show if your place at university has been confirmed.
• If your firm place is confirmed, dance around the kitchen and call Granny. You will receive the AS12 email from UCAS: read it carefully and respond accordingly.
• If it showing as ‘Conditional’, don’t panic: it may not have been updated OR you have your insurance place OR you will have to get ready to find somewhere else.
• EAT something: will help your energy levels even if you feel nauseous at the thought of what is to come…
• Before your results are given to you either in school, online or on the phone, make sure you have your mobile, a pen and paper and a calm, supportive adult (if possible).
• Once you have your results confirmed, you will know where you stand.
• YOU HAVE MET YOUR FIRM OFFER: Well done! Feel proud and open the champagne.
• YOU HAVE MET YOUR INSURANCE OFFER: Well done! You have a place at one of your top two university choices! You will have to tell the Student Loan Company and contact this university to sort out accommodation.
• YOU HAVE DONE BETTER THAN PREDICTED AND THINK YOU WOULD LIKE TO APPLY TO A UNIVERSITY WITH HIGHER GRADE REQUIREMENTS: This is called Adjustment and you do not have to give up your firm place to enter into this stage. Look on the UCAS website for more details.
• YOU HAVE MISSED BOTH YOUR OFFERS FOR FIRM AND INSURANCE PLACES: This is hard, especially if your friends are shrieking with delight all around you. Try to go somewhere quiet to talk with someone you trust. Your school will have helped many students in this position so listen to their advice. Don't worry, soon with careful thinking and acting, you will have a plan.
• It is worth calling your insurance university to see if they can still consider you. They may even offer you a different course. Don’t make hasty decisions about this; make time to look at the course content to make sure you would be happy studying this subject.
• CLEARING: If you have missed both your offers, you will be entered automatically into Clearing. The UCAS website will list all available courses- search by subject and be open to different courses/institutions.
• You may wish to re-take your A Levels- this is a perfectly respectable course to take. We all make mistakes and, learning from them and moving on is a mature approach to take. You could see it as a year to re-think, re-adjust and perhaps get a part-time job.If you decide to defer your place, you will need to contact your university and ask if they will hold your place for another year. Gap years spent wisely can be an excellent way to gain life experience before you go to study again.

If you would like to get more advice about University choices or clearing you can find out more about how our team can help you here. http://independenteducationconsultants.co.uk/applying-to-uk-university 

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We offer a wide range of services and expert advice on your child's education.
Email claire@independenteducationconsultants.co.uk or contact Claire on 01865 522066 for an informal discussion on how we can help.
For more information visit www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

Why Books are the Perfect Christmas Present

The holidays are coming up fast, and schools will soon be on their Christmas breaks. Even though many students have holiday work to complete – especially those with revision to do for spring exams - education can often take a back seat to make way for celebrations, friends and family. And those things are, of course, very important. But so is keeping young brains active and learning during the holidays. The best way to do this is to encourage them to read at every opportunity.

Reading is one of the simplest pleasures. 21^st Century children are surrounded by technology – games consoles, television, tablets, mobile phones. Whilst the latest tech is sure to take pride of place at the top of your children’s Christmas wish list, don’t forget to wrap a few books up under the tree this year.

The benefits of reading in extending your child’s knowledge and understanding of literacy and vocabulary are certainly proven.  Not just for enjoyment, starting a life-long relationship with books is crucial for stretching the imagination, developing new interests and expanding knowledge. Instilling a wide vocabulary, comprehension and accurate spelling skills are essential benefits of reading, putting in place the foundations for success in education in the future. Not to mention reading brings hours of entertainment – it’s learning, without your children even noticing they’re doing it. It keeps their minds active and their imaginations running riot; engross them in a good book and you’ll find them desperate to sit quietly and get lost in those wonderful fictional worlds. Talk to them about what they’re reading and you’ll be amazed at how they can chat away like scholars about an amazing story.

Why not challenge your child to real a certain number of books over Christmas too? Perhaps they can tackle a novel longer than any they’ve read before, or try to read five or six short stories from a collection whilst you’re preparing Christmas dinner.

During family time, ask your child to read aloud to you. Share the reading with them – not just for the wonderful experience of reading with your child, but also to teach listening and public speaking skills. Discuss the meaning of words and their comprehension as you go along. You may find they’re ready to read above the level you’ve been pitching their book choices at.

Above all, it is important to make reading fun and accessible. Books should be displayed all around your home – the kitchen, bedrooms, living room, even the bathroom. Recent research has actually linked the number of books in your home directly to academic achievement (more on that here: https://psmag.com/books-in-the-home-are-strongly-linked-to-academic-achievement-832f3fbb56c8?gi=211b3bf8dc56) so there are no excuses for not providing your children with as many books as you can.

Give them something fun this Christmas that also helps them learn. Books are a perfect Christmas present, because you’re helping your children grow academically, as well as emotionally, whilst also providing them long term entertainment to stimulate their minds in a way no technology could.

Looking for ideas on what to give them to read? We’ve got some recommendations below for children of all ages:

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis

The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper

Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Graham

The Bear, The Snowman, both by Raymond Briggs

End of Term by Antonia Forest

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson

Mog’s Christmas Calamity by Judith Kerr

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

The Children of Green Knowe by Lucy Boston

Wolves of Willoughby Chase by Joan Aiken

Skellig, The Fire Eaters, both by David Almond

Coraline by Neil Gaiman

Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

Happy Hanukkah, Corduroy by Don Freeman

The Tiger in the Well by Philip Pullman

The Ghost of Thomas Kempe by Penelope Lively

Shadow by Michael Morpurgo

Percy Jackson by Rick Riodan

The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving by Jan and Mike Berenstain

The Snow Goose by Paul Gallico

The Call of the Wild by Jack London

Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne-Jones

Blitz Boys by Linda Newberry

Rubies in the Snow by Date Hubbard

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Twas the Night Before Christmas by Rachel Isadora

Young Bond by Charlie Higson

Cat Royal by Julia Golding

Dream Snow by Eric Carle

Lionboy by Zizou Corder

Fancy Nancy: Splendiferous Christmas by Jane O’Connor

Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett

Li’l Rabbit’s Kwanzaa by Donna L. Washington

The Alchemist by H. P. Lovecraft

The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway

Forbidden Game by Malorie Blackman

Angel Pig and the Hidden Christmas by Jan L. Waldron

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss

The Princess Bride by William Goldman

My True Love Game to Me by Stephanie Perkins

Olivia Helps With Christmas by Ian Falconer

Need childcare for the holidays and unsure about the options?

Our guide to Childcare Options is available now for just £1.49 on our online store.

Our online store has guides on all areas of UK Education including financial aid, interview preparation and questions to ask on a school visit.

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Email claire@independenteducationconsultants.co.uk or contact Claire on 01865 522066 for an informal discussion on how we can help.
For more information visit www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

Some top tips for interviewing successfully for schools, universities and graduate jobs

It's an important time of year - young people all across the UK are preparing for interviews at senior schools, sixth forms, universities and graduate jobs. Below are a few of our top interview tips, whatever level you're studying at.

First impressions are important. That means your appearance, your greeting and your body language. Dress appropriately - if the interview is for a school place, dress smartly (students and accompanying parents) or in school uniform if needs be. If it is for university, be sure to show some individual flair, but keep it somewhat formal. For graduate jobs, dress formally - office wear or smart fashionable clothing depending on where you are interviewing. Keep good posture, a strong and positive handshake (but not bone crunching), make eye contact and remember to smile. 

Research the institution or company you wish to join. Appearing well-informed about what it offers and why that appeals to you will give a positive impression, but reading ahead will also help you to understand why it does appeal to you. What is it you like about that school, university or company? Give some thought to what skills and capabilities you are able to offer within the environment of each individual institution. What would you personally bring to the table that would impress? Have some examples at the ready which demonstrate contributions you have made in these areas in the past to back up your claims and be confident about your skills and achievements.

Who will be interviewing you? If you are notified in advance who will be conducting the interview, research their role and what their specific areas of interest might be. It is easier to engage with a person if you have identified some common ground. But remember to be truthful at all times too. You could get into a sticky area if you make a claim that you can’t back-up during discussion via in-depth knowledge or examples.

Back up every answer with a why, how or because. Just answering the question without stating why you have that opinion or giving examples of how you have previously used a skill or attribute within a relevant situation, is only half an answer. Having a full argument or explanation shows your knowledge, experience, but also that you have come well prepared for the day.

If you need time to think, ask the interviewer to repeat the question or perhaps ask a question of your own to clarify. This will buy a bit of time, putting the ball back into their court, giving you time to consider your answer. Always be prepared with a few questions to ask at the end in any case, as this is your best opportunity to find out more about the institution or company, and demonstrate your eagerness to be part of it. Good Luck!

If you are looking for help with senior school interviews or interviews for scholarships or bursaries, why not look at our digital guide on Interview Preparation? Available on our online store via the link below.

Buy now for £12.99

Our online store has guides on all areas of UK Education including financial aid, interview preparation and questions to ask on a school visit.

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We offer a wide range of services and expert advice on your child's education. If you would like interview advice for sixth form, university or jobs, to book in a practice interview session with one of our experts or help with any other education questions you may have, email claire@independenteducationconsultants.co.uk or contact Claire on 01865 522066 for an informal discussion on how we can help.
For more information visit www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

 

Ten Top Financial Tips for Expats in China

1. Save 10% of your income

On an expat package it’s easy to spend all of your disposable income. Set up a savings account and direct 10% of your income before you spend it.

2. Keep updated with your pension(s)

When you’re far away from home you can lose track of your pensions. A suitably qualified financial adviser based in China can obtain up-to-date valuations on your behalf.

3. Explore international opportunities

When you are away from home, be aware that you have a wealth of global opportunities before you

4. Plan ahead for your children’s education

Many people under-estimate the cost of their children’s education. Children educated in International Schools will often choose to attend international universities. In addition, global education costs are inflating at around 7.5%. Set aside sufficient funds to cover your children’s future.

5. Consolidate your assets

Expats typically leave assets in several countries. Consolidate these so they are accessible to your loved ones in the event of something unexpected happening to you.

6. Review your will

What was appropriate at home may not be valid in China. Review your will with an expert in international law.

7. Don’t let RMB accumulate

Officially, RMB in Chinese banks is owned by the Chinese Government! Many banks place restrictions on the amount of RMB that can be taken out of the country in a year. Regularly transfer RMB into a currency that is matched to your long-term planning.

8. Open an offshore bank account

An offshore bank account offers many advantages to expats, including easy access to your money as you move around China and Asia

9. Plan both medium and long-term

The glamour and excitement of expat life offers immediate gratification. However, expat life also offers medium and long-term windows of opportunity. Whilst these might not be glamorous, don’t go home with nothing more than memories.

10. Consult a specialized financial adviser

Expats face a world of opportunities ranging from tax optimization to international planning. A good adviser will be aware of all your options, as well as the longer-term picture, including what happens when you return home or move to another location.

This guest post by:

Howard Whiteson

Senior Wealth Manager, DeVere Group

For complimentary initial planning contact Howard:

howard.whiteson@devere-shanghai.cn

+86 156 9214 1599

www.devere-shanghai.cn

If you are an expat or international parent looking to send your child to school in the UK, consider our digital guide on the UK Education System:

Buy Introduction to the UK Education System NOW for £12.99

Our online store has guides on all areas of UK Education including financial aid, interview preparation and questions to ask on a school visit.

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For more information visit www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

School Open Days and Visits

Many schools have their open days around this time of year, and it is always important to visit your top school choices to make sure they really are a good fit for you and your child.With that in mind, The Independent Education Consultants have put together this short video on what to think about and ask during an open day in order to make the most of it. Be sure to take notes on each school when you visit to compare later.

On our online store has more guides and advice on this topic - find what we have on offer at http://independenteducationconsultants.co.uk/shop. Of particular interest would be our 'Questions to Ask on a School Visit' resource - take this helpsheet along with you to ensure you get answers to the pressing questions you have – it also contains our best tips on visiting schools and space to make your own notes, so you can compare your top school choices after the visits. This fantastic resource is just £4.99 and can be used again and again.

CLICK HERE TO BUY

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Oaka: Smashing Through the SEN Ceiling

Smashing through the SEN ceiling

The Government’s 2014-15 statistics showed that children with special educational needs (SEN) and learning disabilities accounted for just over half of all school exclusions. This is a perfect demonstration of the way in which, sadly, SEN pupils frequently lack the same level of engagement and encouragement when it comes to education as their peers. It’s often the case that, once a child has been diagnosed with a special educational need such as dyslexia or autism, a glass ceiling is put over their educational prospects and aspirations. They can see other children around them grasping concepts and fitting in with ease, and yet they come to feel that they’ll never be able to do the same. This becomes even more tragic when we consider the value that children with SEN can bring to the classroom – the opportunity to look at things from different perspectives and to explore academic subjects in more tactile or visual ways can benefit all children. We see, time and time again in business, the arts and sport, that people with SEN can flourish and rise to the top proving that the SEN glass ceiling is there to be smashed.

Bambi Gardiner, founder of Oaka Books, which creates revision resources for dyslexic students and visual learners, believes that a SEN label should not limit any child from achieving their true potential, but understands that it can be challenging for parents and teachers to know how best to engage them in their learning. She discusses how, by approaching teaching and learning in a slightly different way, we can prevent SEN students from becoming disenfranchised with their education.

Let’s face it, we all love doing things we are good at. Imagine yourself as the pupil who never answers a question in class. With a little preparation, you can be ready to make that leap in your next lesson. The impact of getting that one answer right in front of your peers cannot be underestimated. It may, at times, be more difficult to retain the attention of a child with SEN, especially when you’re confronting them with things that can be confusing and nerve-racking, such as reams of text in an exercise book or a lengthy session of silent working. But, when you do capture their attention and ignite their enthusiasm for exploring and learning, the result can be magical!

All children possess a natural curiosity and a desire to obtain new information; they question the world around them, and children with SEN are no different. All that’s different is the way in which these natural inclinations need to be harnessed and channelled by parents and teachers to help the child achieve academically. But this needs to be addressed early in order that they are not ‘turned off’ their schooling.

Rather than suppressing a SEN student’s need to move around the classroom, ask questions, play with objects around them and talk to their peers, encourage the whole class to explore learning in this way. Get students up and out of their seats, analysing academic concepts in more physical and practical ways. And if you notice that one of your SEN students is not engaging with the activity in hand, why not provide them with some alternative ways of absorbing the same knowledge, such as through crafting an illustrated story to explain a historical event, or playing an educational game where each correct answer on a series of topics brings you closer to the reward at the end? Creating an open environment in which learning can take many forms will help SEN students to flourish and discover what works well for them, rather than feeling stifled and alienated from learning.

Once a child, and their parents and teachers, have recognised the ways in which they learn best, and a way of expressing their ideas that puts them at ease and helps them to feel confident in their ability to learn, there really is no limitation to how much they can achieve. For instance, a child who struggles with dyslexia may find it almost impossible to read an entire novel, and so how are they going to prepare for their English Literature exams?

Firstly, the barrier to effective learning – in this case the physical novel – needs to be removed as the primary learning resource, and other ways of engaging the student with the story and its characters, themes and messages need to be found. This could be through role play, drawing pictures of the characters and annotating them with their attributes, or creating a visual storyboard of the plot. How about using character cards to re-enact the story? A simple, effective way to aid memory recall for both English and history topics.

Remember, the end goal is the same for each student: to engage with the story, comprehend its plot, characters, themes, devices and so on, and be able to communicate this. The fact that one child may be able to achieve this by sitting quietly and reading the novel by themselves, whereas another may need to move around, discuss and make things to engage with the novel is immaterial.

With this in mind, it’s important for parents and teachers, and SEN students themselves, to appreciate that SEN need not be a barrier to achieving great things. Time simply needs to be spent on exploring the various ways that information can be communicated until SEN students find ways that work for them. Fortunately, there are a number of learning resources designed specifically for students with SEN which are a great place to start this exploratory process.

Time and time again we, at Oaka, are told of SEN pupils who have far exceeded their exam expectations because they have used different learning strategies. They have gained confidence that they never believed possible. Setting our SEN pupils up to achieve can have a huge impact on where life takes them. It may be a more scenic route and with some rough terrain, but, if the will is there, many of them can achieve their dreams.

This has been a guest post by Oaka Books. Find their products on their site www.oakabooks.com or on our online store at http://independenteducationconsultants.co.uk/shop.

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