Exploring SEND in the Post-Primary Classroom - A professional learning day for ECTs

Target audience:  Post-Primary Early Career Teachers

ECTs registered with the EA for the academic year 2025-2026 will have received an access code to enable them to apply for this event.  

About this event

This dedicated SEND day for Early Career Teachers offers a practical introduction to inclusive education within the post-primary setting.  Participants will explore effective strategies for creating inclusive classrooms, understand the principles underpinning inclusive education and develop confidence in supporting pupils with special educational needs (SEN).  The day also focuses on meaningful target setting and review within Personal Learning Plans (PLPs), differentiation and accommodations for diverse learners, and the importance of collaboration with support staff and external agencies.

Aims

• To equip ECTs with strategies to create an inclusive learning environment where every pupil feels valued and supported. 
• To promote the integration of diverse learners into the classroom community, fostering a sense of belonging and participation. 
• To provide ECTs with tools and techniques for setting meaningful and achievable targets within Personalised Learning Plans (PLPs). 

Objectives

• Develop an understanding of inclusive education principles and their importance in promoting pupil success and well-being.
• Be familiar with effective differentiation strategies to accommodate diverse learning needs and styles within the classroom.
• Understand ways to celebrate and embrace diversity in the classroom, creating a culture of respect and acceptance.
• Understand the purpose and components of Personalized Learning Plans (PLPs), including setting SMART targets and monitoring progress.

Time

9.30 am - 3.30 pm

There are two different dates and venues for this in-person professional development opportunity.  You only need to choose one option from the available dates.

Substitute cover is available for the release of ECTs working in schools (excludes Independent Schools).  Monies in relation to sub cover will be issued to schools after teacher has attended event.  Schools advised to code to Miscellaneous School Charge/Cost on NISTR.  Special Schools Only:  Please code to EA-V In-service training (quoting EA ECT event) on NISTR.

Please ensure you enter your email address correctly when registering.

Event Closing Dates:  One week before the date of each event listed.

This professional learning opportunity aims to support the development of the following GTCNI competences:

GTCNI Competence No 6

Teachers will have developed a knowledge and understanding of the factors that promote and hinder effective learning, and be aware of the need to provide for the holistic development of the child.

GTCNI Competence No 7

Teachers will have developed a knowledge and understanding of a range of strategies to promote and maintain positive behaviour, including an acknowledgement of pupil voice, to establish an effective learning environment.

GTCNI Competence No 9

Teachers will have developed a knowledge and understanding of their responsibilities under the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice and know the features of the most common special needs and appropriate strategies to address these.

GTCNI Competence No 16

Teachers will deploy, organise and guide the work of other adults to support pupils’ learning, when appropriate.