Implementing an online alternative provision appropriately for vulnerable learners
EDClass Ltd
"EDClass operates as an alternative provider to support pupils who have difficulty in attending a physical school.”
With the introduction of the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, the education sector has a chance to implement suitable support for the most vulnerable learners. However, we need to use a collaborative approach and ensure everyone works in unison so that every learner can acquire the appropriate provision that addresses their challenges.
“What are the main benefits of the Bill?
The ambitions of the Bill are set out in seven key parts:
? Making a child-centred government
? Keeping families together and children safe
? Supporting children with care experience to thrive
? Cracking down on excessive profit making
? Driving high and rising standards for every child
? Removing barriers to opportunity in schools
? Creating a safer and higher quality education system for every child” – Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill
Evidently, there are plans being put into place to raise standards. But, schools and teachers need the resources at their disposal so they can reach the most vulnerable learners. It’s so important to have solidified pastoral support for SEND learners so we can address their needs with appropriate provision. This can alleviate any worries or doubts and raise the confidence of both SEND learners and their parents in line with the SEND and AP Improvement Plan.
“We have seen responses that reflect small, flexible provision being able to address individual need in supporting children and young people to engage with education. We have also heard powerful testimony from young adults who feel their life chances were transformed through attending non-school settings.” – SEND & AP Improvement Plan
Implement appropriate provision so learners can thrive
Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach that all learners will benefit from. We therefore need to drill down into why a learner might be struggling academically, emotionally or in terms of their behaviour. We can integrate some aspects that could be beneficial in the long term.
It’s important to begin by identifying a learner’s strengths and weaknesses before implementing the appropriate support. You can do this by initial assessments and a gap analysis. This can then provide an appropriate learning pathway.
2.? Inclusive Learning Environment
Connection before content is key! Building meaningful relationships and embedding a learning environment where learners can feel valued and welcomed is crucial, especially for SEND learners. You can then discuss with learners and their parents what learning styles would be most appropriate. This is so learners don’t feel overwhelmed or pressured and can fulfil their educational potential.
3.? Regular Reviews
Review and adjust the learning plans regularly as the learner progresses and their needs evolve. Flexibility is vital and strong communication between teachers, support staff, parents/guardians, and any external agencies involved with the learner can be beneficial.
Integrate a DfE-accredited provider of online education
EDClass, as a DfE-accredited provider of online education prides itself on implementing the most appropriate, yet flexible support for vulnerable learners.
With flexible timetabling and one-to-one support from UK-qualified teachers from 9 am – 4 pm, pupils can learn at their own pace diminishing any fears of missing lessons or falling further behind their peers.
The importance of regular engagement and review meetings is also integrated with EDClass. A dedicated reintegration and engagement team collaborate with parents, teachers, agencies and learners to implement the most appropriate support.
?“Another significant strength of EDClass is the provision of carefully considered individualised schemes of work. Known as ‘learning pathways’, these take account of, and build on, the curriculum each pupil was following in their registered school prior to joining EDClass. This includes any specific exam syllabuses. As a result, when pupils return to mainstream education, they are well prepared to reintegrate into lessons.” – EDClass Ofsted OEAS Report, May 2024
“EDClass has been instrumental from a pastoral point of view, having connection alongside content is crucial for all learners. Also, all of our pupils can access, live pastoral SEND and safeguarding support, which is a massive lifeline for us.” - Head of AP & School Engagement, Duke’s Secondary School
If you found this interesting and would like to learn more about how EDClass can implement appropriate support for you and your learners, call 01909 568338, send an email to [email protected] or enquire for more information here.
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