University first national provider for Dyslexia and SENCo training

Edge Hill University has been awarded extra places to train special educational needs (SEN) teachers across the country after delivering two successful training programmes.

The University is now the sole national provider for the courses National Award for Special Educational Need Coordination (SENCos) and the Specialist Dyslexia Training for Teachers, after initially winning both contracts in 2009 and 2010 respectively.

Edge Hill University has an unrivalled track record in teacher training and professional development and both programmes have had such a positive impact in the education sector that the Training and Development Agency (TDA) has awarded more places to the University.

Partnership Development Co-ordinator Chris Joynson said: "It is fantastic news that we have been given extra places by the TDA to deliver these programmes nationally. It is a major achievement given that we have only been running these programmes for a short period and is a reflection of the excellent reputation we have in teacher training and the professional development of teachers. They have both been extremely successful and I'm sure they will continue to make a real difference to the professional development of the education workforce."

The National SENCo Award enhances the practice and raises the profile of SENCos within schools and education settings. By completing the award, new SENCos will be given the opportunity to reflect upon and improve practice and learn more about the coordination of Special Educational Needs.

Programme Leader for SENCO Lisa O'Connor, said: "In education all children should reach their full potential, regardless of their needs.  The role of the SENCo will continue to grow in importance in relation to ensuring inclusion for all.  I am delighted that the TDA are continuing to invest in this training initiative nationally."

The Specialist Dyslexia Training for Teachers (including AMBDA and ATS) is the newer of the two programmes and the main aim of the programme is to increase the participation of pupils with dyslexia, raise their achievement in schools  and improve their wellbeing.

Dyslexia Programme Leader Karen Boardman, said: "There's no doubt that dyslexia-friendly practice is becoming more and more important for all settings - multi-sensory teaching works well in both primary and secondary settings. Therefore, developing specialist skills for teachers on this programme definitely results in good practice for everyone. Gaining this status and qualification is beneficial. not only for a teacher's own professional development, but also because they will be able to make a real difference to pupils and other teachers in supporting those with specific learning needs."

Anyone who is interested in these programmes must register their interest by 1^st March. For further information and to request a application pack, please contact Chris Joynson (Partnership Development Co-ordinator) on 01695 584476/07809 542800 or email chris.joynson@edgehill.ac.uk.