Emma is a special school teacher whose good practice we are keen to share far and wide. Not blinkered by the labels of the students in her class, Emma has assisted them in their communication and subsequent literacy acquisition to a point where they are able to show just what they are capable of. We are very proud to have Emma as an ambassador for Teach Us Too. She exemplifies all that we stand for!

I have been a class teacher at Sandside Lodge School in Cumbria for the past nine years, and after seeing Jonathan’s story and campaign several years ago I was inspired to teach my PMLD students differently.

We worked extensively on communication, using sensory activities to give the students something to talk about. They developed their abilities to express opinions, make requests, comment, greet people and so much more, and each student left the class with a robust communication system, ranging from clear yes and no responses to comprehensive symbol systems accessed via EyeGaze technology. 

Now that they could communicate, the fun began. We had proved it was their physical and sensory barriers that affected their ability to learn, not their perceived cognitive impairments. So now, every child at Sandside, regardless of ability or perceived ability, is taught how to read and write in a bespoke way. 

Literacy unlocks and enhances communication, which paves the way for a more independent, fulfilling life. Since the culture at school has changed, I have seen students’ self-confidence, as well as their pride in themselves and their work, blossom. I have also seen reduced frustration, leading to reduced challenging behaviours. 

Teach Us Too has paved the way for so many children to access their right to a meaningful education by inspiring professionals and parents to change their perspectives to the least dangerous assumption and always assume competence.