Including a child or young person’s views is essential in ensuring provision is appropriate for an individual’s needs.
How we record views
During school visits we always seek child or young person’s views. We use a range of strategies that includes discussion, use of resources or observations. We use these views to help children and young people develop solution focussed strategies co-produced with adults, so outcomes and provisions are personalised, appropriate and achievable. This supports developing self advocacy and future skills.
Some of the issues raised by children we work with include:
They said:
“I want to join in with PE lessons, I often feel I can’t take part in my wheelchair”
We did:
- The child met with PE staff to explain their strengths and needs
- The Physical Difficulties (PD) Team shared advice about inclusive PE resources
- The child attended a wheelchair skills session run with the PD team to develop their confidence using their wheelchair in sport.
- The Physiotherapist gave advice on strength and conditioning development
Outcome:
“I have enjoyed playing Dodgeball and Netball this term. I feel I am getting better at catching the ball, and I have even scored for my team in Netball”.
They said:
“I would like to meet up with other children who have the same disability as me, I am the only child in my school who uses a wheelchair”
We did:
- The child was invited to a range of activity days organised by the PD Team, including Sound Avenues inclusive music, Inclusive Sports Day and Wheelchair Skills training.
- The child was able to take an informal part in activities in a relaxed setting, this gave the child chance to meet with other young people with similar needs.
- The child has helped to plan future PD events, and is keen to attend with some of the children they have met
- The child reports they feel less isolated, and might try new activities with other wheelchair users outside school
Outcome:
“I had a really great day, it was fun meeting other children who use a wheelchair. It was also good to try out a sports wheelchair, and see what other children are using. I feel more confident now”.
They said:
“I love listening to music, but don’t play an instrument. I would like the chance to play music, and try an instrument because I don’t think I can play an instrument”
We did:
- The PD Team work closely with the DCC Music Hub to run Sound Avenues, an inclusive group for children with physical difficulties to play instruments in a group.
- Children of all ages are invited to attend, play a wide range of instruments, and begin to perform as part of a group.
- A group of students with physical difficulties attended The Mix together in July, where they took an active part in a range of music workshops including body percussion and group singing.
Outcome:
“ I love coming to the music group, I have made new friends and now have piano lessons. I was very scared at first, but now I like playing in front of other people, it is really fun”!
They said:
“ I would like to go on the trip with my class to the zoo without my Mum coming along.”
We did:
- PD Team supported school staff to complete an Individual Risk Assessment, identifying areas of challenge, and develop solution focussed strategies to overcome difficulties.
- PD Team shared information on Changing Places accessible toilets so the child could safely use the toilet when out without a parent needed, and supported staff to complete and Intimate Care Plan.
- School staff attended DCC Moving and Handling Training so staff were confident supporting the child without a parent present.
Outcome:
“I had a great day at the zoo, it was a bit weird going without my mum, but I felt safe and could go everywhere with my friends”.