Ideally the SENCO should coordinate the timetables. To make it manageable in a busy environment, it is important to identify, agree and monitor strategic priorities with the class teacher… Maths, Literacy, etc.
SENCO
After gathering all necessary information and meeting with relevant staff members, the next crucial step in your role as a Special Education Teacher (SET) is to develop a well-structured timetable. This process requires careful planning and collaboration to ensure the children receive the support they need without missing out on essential subjects.
Here are my considerations and suggested good practices to consider.
Collaborating with class teachers
Timetabling for SET students begins with comprehensive discussions with all class teachers to understand their schedules. Each class will have unique timetables, and it’s essential to align your support sessions without disrupting critical lessons. Prioritise subjects such as Physical Education (PE), Religion, English, Gaeilge, and Maths. Ideally, students should not miss these subjects, as they form the core of their educational experience. Meeting with class teachers allows you to pinpoint times when students can be withdrawn for additional support without impacting their participation in these key areas.
Strategic withdrawal scheduling
When withdrawing students for small group sessions, it’s crucial to rotate the subjects they miss to avoid any single subject being consistently missed. According to Department of Education guidelines, the mainstream teacher remains responsible for the child’s overall learning, not the SET teacher. This means your timetable should complement rather than replace the class teacher’s instruction. If a child has an exemption from Gaeilge, aim to schedule your sessions during this time, allowing the student to miss minimal instructional time in other subjects. The same approach applies to Religion classes. This strategy helps ensure that students remain integrated with their peers and receive a balanced education.
In-class support and teaching methods
In addition to withdrawal sessions, in-class support is a vital component of SET. Scheduling your support during literacy and numeracy lessons can significantly enhance the learning experience. This support can take various forms, including team teaching or station teaching, where students rotate through different activity stations. These collaborative teaching methods allow you to address individual needs while supporting the entire class. Ensure that students with the greatest needs receive the highest level of support. This approach aligns with the principle of equity in education, ensuring that resources are allocated based on need.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, timetabling requires thoughtful planning and continuous collaboration with class teachers. By strategically scheduling withdrawal sessions and providing in-class support, you can maximise the benefits for those children with special educational needs. Remember, the goal is to integrate support seamlessly into their overall educational experience, ensuring they receive a well-rounded and inclusive education.
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