Job file: Area Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator

Who’s doing it? Jane Thewlis.

Where? Early years and child care service,
Bradford Council.

Job description: To support private and voluntary
sector child care staff (in nurseries, out-of-school clubs,
creches, playgroups and as childminders) to develop inclusive
environments for children with additional needs.

Skills/qualifications needed: Experience of
working with disabled children, commitment to inclusion, ability to
deliver training, diploma in social work.

Pay: £27,420-£31,536.

Grade: National Joint Council scale point
38-43.

What’s the job like? It’s satisfying to see all
children, including those with additional needs, joining in and
accepted at their local nursery or out-of-school club. I learn
something new every day. I work closely with other area special
needs co-ordinators in our team, including a teacher, a nurse, a
speech and language therapist and a lecturer in early years work. I
also liaise with other professionals including childminders,
educational psychologists and physiotherapists. It’s good to draw
on each other’s expertise.

My role is to contribute a social work perspective and maintain
links with social services. We work with children up to 16,
although most are younger than 12. I visit more than 70 child care
settings in north Bradford and may give advice or provide training
to staff.

I enjoy getting a chance to play with the children if, for example,
I am observing one particular child. I can advise on writing
education, play and health care plans; on working with parents; on
observation and assessment; on managing behaviour; on developing
children’s communication skills and confidence; and on implementing
laws and guidance on disabled children.

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