Engaging Learners With Complex Learning Difficulties and Disabilities - 9780415812740

Children and young people with Complex Learning Difficulties and Disabilities (CLDD) have co-existing and overlapping conditions which can manifest in complex learning patterns, extreme behaviours, and a range of socio-medical needs which are new and unfamiliar to many educators. Their combination of issues and layered needs – mental health, relationships, behavioural, physical, medical, sensory, communication and cognitive – mean they often disengage from learning, and challenge even our most experienced teachers.

This book for school practitioners and leaders, which is based on a framework developed by the Specialist Schools’ Academy Trust and funded by the DfE, provides educators and other professionals working in schools with the resources to address this group’s diverse needs.

The approach provides a means of assessing, recording, achieving progression, developing high expectations and recognising potential for children and young people with the most complex learning difficulties and disabilities. The focus on inquiry means that however complex the young person’s needs, practitioners will be able to apply the approach, which has been developed and trialled by over 100 educational settings with learners from early years to post 16.

This practical and engaging book provides literature, tools and case study examples outlining who children and young people with complex learning difficulties and disabilities are, why their engagement for learning is important, and how the Engagement for Learning Resource Framework can be used effectively by teachers and other professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for these students.