Teaching in a specialist school is more than a career—it’s a calling that makes a lasting impact. If you’re seeking a path that’s challenging, deeply rewarding, and makes a real difference, SEND teaching could be for you.

To help you explore this fulfilling profession, Sunningdale School is hosting an online twilight session introducing our SEND Teacher Training Programme, developed with top-performing SEND schools and Northumbria University.

Why Attend?
This session is a fantastic opportunity to get an insider’s look at the programme, our school, and what a career in SEND has to offer.

What You’ll Discover

• Our Specialised Training Programme: See how we prepare trainees to teach confidently in both mainstream primary and specialist SEND settings, with targeted strategies for supporting children with special needs.
• Hands-On Placements: Learn about our immersive SEND school placements, which provide invaluable, practical experience.
• Application & Interview Guidance: Get tips on applying, preparing for interviews, and insights into the journey ahead.
• Ongoing Mentorship: Find out about the mentorship and support you’ll receive from experienced SEND educators throughout the programme.
• Career Opportunities: Explore the pathways and roles available after qualification.
• Funding & Financial Support: Understand the loan and funding options that make this career change accessible.

Take the first step towards a truly rewarding career in SEND—join us for this special twilight session!

Why Choose Sunningdale?

This programme is tailored for postgraduates passionate about SEND. Many of our trainees are already SEND school staff seeking a clear progression route to qualified teacher status.

Can’t attend, but would like to chat to someone about the course and its requirements?

Email Jane: jane.shaw@sdunningdaleschool.com

PARTICIPANTS MUST HAVE PREVIOUSLY COMPLETED MAKATON LEVEL 1 AND LEVEL 2 TRAINING IN ORDER TO ATTEND THIS COURSE

This training course follows on from previous Level 1 and Level 2 training, and will help you to improve and develop your signing and symbol skills and how to use them effectively every day. Building upon your existing knowledge, this course aims to further enhance and refine your signing and symbol skills, equipping you to apply them effectively in everyday situations.

Course Highlights:

Reinforcing Your Foundation: You will revisit and reinforce the signs and symbols you learned during your Level 1 and Level 2 training, ensuring a strong foundation for continued learning.

Extending Your Vocabulary: Delve into the Makaton core vocabulary by mastering signs and symbols from stages 5 to 8. This expansion of your vocabulary will enable you to communicate more comprehensively with Makaton users.

Comprehensive Resources: Receive course manuals containing all signs and symbols covered during the course, serving as valuable references for your ongoing practice.

Who Should Attend:
This course is ideal for parents, caregivers, and professionals seeking to further develop their Makaton proficiency to support children’s language and communication development. It is essential to have previously completed a Makaton Level 1 and Level 2 workshop, or a Makaton Beginners’ or Foundation workshop, to attend this advanced training.

Our Expert Trainers:
Our licensed Makaton tutors are integral members of the Speech & Language Therapy team in Sunderland & South Tyneside. With their expertise and experience, they are dedicated to helping you expand your Makaton skills and make a positive impact on the children you support.

Take the next step in your Makaton journey by joining this advanced training. Strengthen your signing and symbol skills to provide enhanced communication support for children, and gain the confidence to use Makaton effectively in various contexts. Reserve your place today and continue your path to becoming a proficient Makaton user.

The training will take place at the SENhub at Sunningdale School, Sunderland and will be delivered over 4 sessions as follows:

Wednesday 15th Jan 2025 9.30am – 12.30pm
Wednesday 22nd Jan 2025 9.30 am – 12.30pm
Wednesday 29th Jan 2025 9.30am – 12.30pm
Wednesday 5th Feb 2025 9.30am – 12.30pm
Please note: participants need to be able to attend all 4 sessions.

This course costs £50 for parents / carers / family members of children on the South Tyneside and Sunderland Speech and Language Therapy caseload, and £165 for professionals.

This online course has been designed for parents/carer with children with additional learning needs.

During the session, participants will develop their basic understanding and knowledge of Autism, including the various barriers and challenges children and young people may face. They will leave with strategies and techniques to aid learning and understanding at home.

Workshop leader Karen Ferguson is the Founder and Principal Trainer for Linrow Education.

Karen has considerable experience of working in SEND environments, she also has a Masters Degree in Education and Level 2 Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism and PDA qualifications. Karen believes that a better understanding of SEND and complex needs can be achieved through information sharing and is committed to ensuring that quality education is available to all.

The strategies are not diagnostic tools, and you will not be able to gain a diagnosis from this session.

This session will take place via the Zoom virtual platform, delegates will be sent access codes/ links prior to the virtual sessions.

Places on this training is limited to ensure that participants leaning needs are meet. The session is likely to be popular so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Makaton is a language programme, using signs and symbols alongside speech, which can be used with children and adults who need help with communication.

This training course provides a practical introduction to the Makaton language programme. Sessions will cover commonly asked questions, hints and tips for effective signing and symbol use, and how to start using Makaton in everyday situations at home or work. You will learn the signs and symbols from stages 1 – 4 and some of the additional stage of the Makaton core vocabulary. You will receive course manuals with copies of all signs and symbols taught.

This course is for parents, carers, or professionals who want to learn Makaton to support children’s language and communication development. No previous experience of Makaton is necessary.

The training is provided by licenced Makaton tutors who work in Sunderland & South Tyneside as part of the Speech & Language Therapy team. They have the expertise to guide you on your journey to better communication.

Join us and explore the benefits of Makaton to enhance your ability to communicate effectively with others. This training can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you care for or work with.

The training will take place at the SENhub at Sunningdale School, Sunderland and will be delivered over 4 sessions as follows:

• Thursday 23rd January, 9.30am – 12.30pm
• Thursday 30th January, 9.30am – 12.30pm
• Thursday 6th February, 9.30am – 12.30pm
• Thursday 13th February, 9.30am – 12.30pm

Please note: participants need to be able to attend all 4 sessions.

This course costs £50 for parents / carers / family members of children on the South Tyneside and Sunderland Speech and Language Therapy caseload, and £165 for professionals.

Teaching in a specialist school is more than a job; it’s a vocation that leaves a lasting legacy. If you’re looking for a career that’s far from ordinary, embraces challenges, and brings a meaningful impact to the lives of children in need, this might be the path for you.

To help you explore this rewarding profession, Sunningdale School is hosting a free introductory workshop about our SEND Teacher Training Programme, offered in partnership with high-performing SEND schools and Northumbria University. Designed specifically for postgraduates, our programme trains educators to teach children with special educational needs. Many of our trainees are already working in SEND schools, looking to gain full qualifications to advance their careers.

What to Expect at the Workshop

This interactive session offers a first-hand experience of life in a special needs school, with insights into our unique training programme. You’ll:

• Tour the School: See our learning environment and meet our dedicated teachers and inspiring pupils.
• Learn about the Training Programme: Discover how our programme prepares you for both mainstream and SEND teaching, with a focus on strategies to support children with special needs.
• Explore Practical Placements: Understand the benefits of real-world experience in SEND schools.
• Get Application Tips: Receive guidance on the application and interview process.
• Understand Mentoring Support: Learn about the extensive mentoring provided by experienced SEND educators.
• Discover Career Progression: See how the programme opens doors to rewarding opportunities within SEND teaching.
• Funding Information: Get details on loans and financial support available to make this career pathway accessible.

This free informal session is a great chance to ask questions, meet like-minded people, and decide if a career in SEND teaching is right for you.

Take the first step towards a career that makes a real difference—register your place today!

Why Choose Sunningdale?

This programme is tailored for postgraduates passionate about SEND. Many of our trainees are already SEND school staff seeking a clear progression route to qualified teacher status.

Can’t attend, but would like to chat to someone about the course and its requirements?

Email Jane: jane.shaw@sdunningdaleschool.com

PARTICIPANTS MUST HAVE PREVIOUSLY COMPLETED MAKATON LEVEL 1 AND LEVEL 2 TRAINING IN ORDER TO ATTEND THIS COURSE

This training course follows on from previous Level 1 and Level 2 training, and will help you to improve and develop your signing and symbol skills and how to use them effectively every day. Building upon your existing knowledge, this course aims to further enhance and refine your signing and symbol skills, equipping you to apply them effectively in everyday situations.

Course Highlights:

Reinforcing Your Foundation: You will revisit and reinforce the signs and symbols you learned during your Level 1 and Level 2 training, ensuring a strong foundation for continued learning.

Extending Your Vocabulary: Delve into the Makaton core vocabulary by mastering signs and symbols from stages 5 to 8. This expansion of your vocabulary will enable you to communicate more comprehensively with Makaton users.

Comprehensive Resources: Receive course manuals containing all signs and symbols covered during the course, serving as valuable references for your ongoing practice.

Who Should Attend:
This course is ideal for parents, caregivers, and professionals seeking to further develop their Makaton proficiency to support children’s language and communication development. It is essential to have previously completed a Makaton Level 1 and Level 2 workshop, or a Makaton Beginners’ or Foundation workshop, to attend this advanced training.

Our Expert Trainers:
Our licensed Makaton tutors are integral members of the Speech & Language Therapy team in Sunderland & South Tyneside. With their expertise and experience, they are dedicated to helping you expand your Makaton skills and make a positive impact on the children you support.

Take the next step in your Makaton journey by joining this advanced training. Strengthen your signing and symbol skills to provide enhanced communication support for children, and gain the confidence to use Makaton effectively in various contexts. Reserve your place today and continue your path to becoming a proficient Makaton user.

The training will take place at the SENhub at Sunningdale School, Sunderland and will be delivered over 4 sessions as follows:

Wednesday 15th Jan 2025 9.30am – 12.30pm
Wednesday 22nd Jan 2025 9.30 am – 12.30pm
Wednesday 29th Jan 2025 9.30am – 12.30pm
Wednesday 5th Feb 2025 9.30am – 12.30pm
Please note: participants need to be able to attend all 4 sessions.

This course costs £50 for parents / carers / family members of children on the South Tyneside and Sunderland Speech and Language Therapy caseload, and £165 for professionals.

Makaton is a language programme, using signs and symbols alongside speech, which can be used with children and adults who need help with communication.

This training course provides a practical introduction to the Makaton language programme. Sessions will cover commonly asked questions, hints and tips for effective signing and symbol use, and how to start using Makaton in everyday situations at home or work. You will learn the signs and symbols from stages 1 – 4 and some of the additional stage of the Makaton core vocabulary. You will receive course manuals with copies of all signs and symbols taught.

This course is for parents, carers, or professionals who want to learn Makaton to support children’s language and communication development. No previous experience of Makaton is necessary.

The training is provided by licenced Makaton tutors who work in Sunderland & South Tyneside as part of the Speech & Language Therapy team. They have the expertise to guide you on your journey to better communication.

Join us and explore the benefits of Makaton to enhance your ability to communicate effectively with others. This training can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you care for or work with.

The training will take place at the SENhub at Sunningdale School, Sunderland and will be delivered over 4 sessions as follows:

• Thursday 23rd January, 9.30am – 12.30pm
• Thursday 30th January, 9.30am – 12.30pm
• Thursday 6th February, 9.30am – 12.30pm
• Thursday 13th February, 9.30am – 12.30pm

Please note: participants need to be able to attend all 4 sessions.

This course costs £50 for parents / carers / family members of children on the South Tyneside and Sunderland Speech and Language Therapy caseload, and £165 for professionals.

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is linked to an extreme need to avoid everyday demands and opportunities. Some of the distinctive features of the profile are around high levels of anxiety, using social means to avoid, resisting the ordinary demands and excessive mood swings. The need for control in all areas is a prominent feature which can appear dominating. High levels of support are required along with specific strategies to engage.

This online session is for parents/carers wanting to learn more about Pathological Demand Avoidance

During the session, participants will develop their basic understanding and knowledge of PDA, including the various barriers and challenges students may face in the classroom. They will leave with a secure understanding of how to support and aid learning.

By the end of the session, delegates will have:

• An understanding of PDA
• An awareness of the barriers to learning and the impact of these difficulties
• An awareness of strategies and activities to aid learning from home

Workshop leader Karen Ferguson is the Founder and Principal Trainer for Linrow Education.

Karen has considerable experience of working in SEND environments, she also has a Masters Degree in Education and Level 2 Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism and PDA qualifications.  Karen believes that a better understanding of SEND and complex needs can be achieved through information sharing and is committed to ensuring that quality education is available to all.

The strategies are not diagnostic tools, and you will not be able to gain a diagnosis from this session.

This session will take place via the Zoom virtual platform, delegates will be sent access codes/ links prior to the virtual sessions.

“Leaders have developed an inspirational curriculum that ensures that learning is tailored to meet the needs of all pupils.” – Ofsted (June 2023)

Sunningdale School has developed a multi-tiered curriculum approach for pupils with severe, complex, profound and multiple learning difficulties. The school’s approach has been designed so that pupils at all levels can effectively apply their learning to develop independence and agency

Sunningdale School’s vision is encapsulated in the phrase, ‘Be More…’ This will be different for every child. Believing that every child can Be More means that we want every child to be more in whatever way is important to them. The school’s vision is actioned at a pupil level through the use of a highly personalised planning system supported by specific Personalised Learning Plans (PLPs) and an understanding of Engagement motivators.

Classes are arranged across 3 theoretical pedagogical pathways that begin on transition from the Early Years Foundation Stage and run through Key Stages 1 and 2 until the pupils’ transition to relevant secondary provisions at the end of year 6. The pathways are the Pre-formal Pathway, the Explore Pathway and the Semi-formal Play Pathway. These are underpinned by a pre-formal, informal low-demand and semi-formal approach respectively. The school utilises a play-based pedagogy throughout.

The school’s pathways are supported by a multi-tiered curriculum model that is sequenced to towards cumulatively developing skills, knowledge and holistic development both within and across each pathway. Curriculum areas are closely matched to consider the developmental needs of the pupils in each pathway. The school developed its pathway approach based on the unique needs and growing complexity of the pupil groups attending the school. They are supported by a play based pedagogy as well as specific well known interventions and strategies. Strong links are made with Preparation for Adulthood (PfA) outcomes and subjects build cumulatively towards supporting these: Employment, Independent Living, Community Participation, Friendships & Relationships.

“Many schools are organised as they are because they always have been, not because they must be.” – Ken Robinson

Ours isn’t.

http://www.sunningdaleschool.com/curriculum/curriculumoverview.htm

We are establishing a series of practice sharing days where delegates will get to hear from senior and middle leaders about the school’s approach including how subjects, pedagogy and assessment are structured to support individualised outcomes for pupils working throughout the school. Delegates will have time to speak to senior and middle leaders as well as spend time in classrooms and see the schools facilities.

Places will be limited to ensure that delegates take as much from the day as possible but will also offer some opportunities to network with like minded provisions.

Places will be limited to ensure that delegates take as much from the day as possible but will also offer some opportunities to network with like-minded provisions.

The cost is set at £100 per person. The day will include a buffet lunch and networking session.

Please get in touch if you would like support with accommodation or travel recommendations.

This informative short course has been designed for parents and carers who have a basic understanding of dyslexia and want to further develop their knowledge. During the session, delegates will further develop their understanding and knowledge of dyslexia and dyspraxia.

You will leave with reassuringly uncomplicated strategies and activities to stimulate and aid development. By the end of this workshop you will have:

• More knowledge and understanding about dyslexia and dyspraxia.
• Develop an understanding of the key interventions and strategies available.
• Worked through a selection of case studies to further develop your understanding of how to implement these strategies at home.

The strategies are not diagnostic tools, and you will not be able to gain a diagnosis from this session.

Workshop leader Karen Ferguson is the Founder and Principal Trainer for Linrow Education. Karen started teaching science at a mainstream secondary school in 2000. She then moved into the SEND environment working with children and parents to help them overcome their disabilities and give them the skills to achieve their full potential. Karen was appointed as a Specialist Leader in Education for Autism and this allowed her to disseminate good practice and deliver SEND training. She offers various condition specific training, including ASC, ADHD and Dyslexia.

Karen has continued her personal professional development over the years: she has a Masters Degree in Education and Level 2 Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism and PDA qualifications. She is currently working towards her Doctorate in Education.

Karen believes that a better understanding of SEND and complex needs can be achieved through information sharing and is committed to ensuring that quality education is available to all.

This session will take place via the Zoom virtual platform, delegates will be sent access codes/ links prior to the virtual sessions.

Makaton is a language programme, using signs and symbols alongside speech, which can be used with children and adults who need help with communication.

This training course provides a practical introduction to the Makaton language programme. Sessions will cover commonly asked questions, hints and tips for effective signing and symbol use, and how to start using Makaton in everyday situations at home or work. You will learn the signs and symbols from stages 1 – 4 and some of the additional stage of the Makaton core vocabulary. You will receive course manuals with copies of all signs and symbols taught.

This course is for parents, carers, or professionals who want to learn Makaton to support children’s language and communication development. No previous experience of Makaton is necessary.

The training is provided by licenced Makaton tutors who work in Sunderland & South Tyneside as part of the Speech & Language Therapy team. They have the expertise to guide you on your journey to better communication.

Join us and explore the benefits of Makaton to enhance your ability to communicate effectively with others. This training can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you care for or work with.

The training will take place at the SENhub at Sunningdale School, Sunderland and will be delivered over 6 sessions as follows:

• Wednesday 5th March, 3.45 – 5.45pm
• Wednesday 12th March, 3.45 – 5.45pm
• Wednesday 19th March, 3.45 – 5.45pm
• Wednesday 26th March, 3.45 – 5.45pm
• Wednesday 2nd April, 3.45 – 5.45pm
• Wednesday 9th April, 3.45 – 5.45pm

Please note: participants need to be able to attend all 6 sessions.

This course costs £50 for parents / carers / family members of children on the South Tyneside and Sunderland Speech and Language Therapy caseload, and £165 for professionals.

“Leaders have developed an inspirational curriculum that ensures that learning is tailored to meet the needs of all pupils.” – Ofsted (June 2023)

Sunningdale School has developed a multi-tiered curriculum approach for pupils with severe, complex, profound and multiple learning difficulties. The school’s approach has been designed so that pupils at all levels can effectively apply their learning to develop independence and agency

Sunningdale School’s vision is encapsulated in the phrase, ‘Be More…’ This will be different for every child. Believing that every child can Be More means that we want every child to be more in whatever way is important to them. The school’s vision is actioned at a pupil level through the use of a highly personalised planning system supported by specific Personalised Learning Plans (PLPs) and an understanding of Engagement motivators.

Classes are arranged across 3 theoretical pedagogical pathways that begin on transition from the Early Years Foundation Stage and run through Key Stages 1 and 2 until the pupils’ transition to relevant secondary provisions at the end of year 6. The pathways are the Pre-formal Pathway, the Explore Pathway and the Semi-formal Play Pathway. These are underpinned by a pre-formal, informal low-demand and semi-formal approach respectively. The school utilises a play-based pedagogy throughout.

The school’s pathways are supported by a multi-tiered curriculum model that is sequenced to towards cumulatively developing skills, knowledge and holistic development both within and across each pathway. Curriculum areas are closely matched to consider the developmental needs of the pupils in each pathway. The school developed its pathway approach based on the unique needs and growing complexity of the pupil groups attending the school. They are supported by a play based pedagogy as well as specific well known interventions and strategies. Strong links are made with Preparation for Adulthood (PfA) outcomes and subjects build cumulatively towards supporting these: Employment, Independent Living, Community Participation, Friendships & Relationships.

“Many schools are organised as they are because they always have been, not because they must be.” – Ken Robinson

Ours isn’t.

http://www.sunningdaleschool.com/curriculum/curriculumoverview.htm

We are establishing a series of practice sharing days where delegates will get to hear from senior and middle leaders about the school’s approach including how subjects, pedagogy and assessment are structured to support individualised outcomes for pupils working throughout the school. Delegates will have time to speak to senior and middle leaders as well as spend time in classrooms and see the schools facilities.

Places will be limited to ensure that delegates take as much from the day as possible but will also offer some opportunities to network with like minded provisions.

Places will be limited to ensure that delegates take as much from the day as possible but will also offer some opportunities to network with like-minded provisions.

The cost is set at £100 per person. The day will include a buffet lunch and networking session.

Please get in touch if you would like support with accommodation or travel recommendations.