Sensory Inclusive Schools: The Future of Inclusive Learning
By Sensory Integration Education, 18 March 2024
Sensory Integration Education (SIE) is thrilled to announce the launch of Sensory Inclusive Schools (SIS), created in response to the growing need for inclusive learning. SIE Recognises the challenges faced by educators in creating inclusive environments for students with diverse sensory profiles, SIS offers high-quality training and ongoing support from qualified sensory integration-trained therapists directly to schools. If you are an SI Practitioner already working with a school and see a gap in training or a professional who knows the impact of SI, this service is for you.
The Sensory Inclusive Schools service addresses the demand for sensory processing education in schools, as we know resources and access to sensory integration experts are limited. This comprehensive programme empowers educational settings to tailor their environments and curriculums to support the unique sensory needs of all students.
Research suggests that 1 in 57 children in the UK have autism and that as many as 90% of these will have sensory processing difficulties impacting their day-to-day lives1, such as accessing education.
Failure to address sensory needs can lead to behaviours resulting in exclusion. Children with autism account for just over 1% of the school population but makeup 2.5% of all exclusions – this is a 60% rise since 20222.
The National Autistic Society emphasises the duty of schools to make necessary adjustments under the Equality Act 20103:
SIS will empower schools to develop sensory-informed environments and curriculums leading to improved educational outcomes for all.
Sensory Inclusive Schools service includes...
On-Demand Online Learning: Engage with bite-sized videos created by therapists, explaining sensory processing principles and practical strategies applicable within a school setting.
Online Community of Learning: Participate in a therapist-moderated online forum to share queries and breakthroughs with peers. This 24/7 accessible platform ensures a therapist response within three working days.
Live Peer Support Online Sessions: Join live video calls led by therapists for support and information on embedding sensory learning into the classroom. These sessions are held weekly during term time.
Downloadable Resources: Access a variety of downloadable resources for use within schools and collaborate with qualified therapists to develop additional resources as needed.
Bonus Sensory Insights Video: Receive a personalised Sensory Insights Video from an occupational therapist and advanced sensory integration practitioner, summarising and expanding on learnings from the online community and peer support sessions.
Tailored Learning and Support Packages: SIS offers bespoke learning and support packages for Teaching Assistants, Teachers, SENCOs, and other sensory professionals involved in supporting schools.
PC-Free Access Via the SIS App: An innovative aspect of the SIS service is its accessibility through the SIS App, providing educators with convenient PC-free access to a wealth of resources and support.
To learn more about Sensory Inclusive Schools, watch our comprehensive introduction here.
Rosalind Rogers, Chair of Sensory Integration Education, said “We are proud to launch Sensory Inclusive Schools; this is a step towards creating inclusive educational environments for all students. By providing accessible training and ongoing support, SIS empowers schools with limited resources to meet the diverse sensory needs of their students, fostering an environment where every child can thrive."
Sensory Inclusive School's mission is that all schools have a skilled workforce able to identify and support students' sensory needs at the earliest opportunity, contributing to successful educational outcomes. SIS will help to shape an inclusive and enriching educational experience for all with the help of a supported and educated team of professionals. Visit Sensory Inclusive School's website here.
References
(1) Tomchek, S. D., & Dunn, W. (2007). Sensory Processing in Children With and Without Autism: A Comparative Study Using the Short Sensory Profile. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 61(2), 190–200. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.61.2.190
(2) Exclusions of pupils with autism rocket in England, new data shows. (n.d.). Ambitious about Autism. https://www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk/about-us/media-centre/news/exclusions-pupils-autism-rocket-england-new-data-shows
(3) National Autistic Society. (2021). School Report 2021. https://s2.chorus-mk.thirdlight.com/file/24/0HTGORW0HHJnx_c0HLZm0HWvpWc/NAS-Education-Report-2021-A4%20%281%29.pdf
