ABSTRACT

This book is designed to support Teaching Assistants in the important and unique role they play in the education of children. This new edition includes a range of additional material and reflects developments in the recent UK context and legislation that relates to participation and diversity. It raises issues concerning values and professional practice for Teaching Assistants, emphasising inclusive approaches and the importance of understanding the perspectives of learners throughout. Each chapter contains an overview of topical debates, current research, a discussion of issues relating to values and professional practice. Every chapter raises questions and suggests reading for further reflection.

This highly accessible resource includes contributions from leading researchers and experienced education practitioners. It introduces a range of issues, with a focus on inclusion and the key role of teaching assistants, such as:

  • understanding inclusive education: school communities and participation
  • Special educational needs and inclusive practice
  • supporting Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) children
  • ethnic diversity and attainment
  • the influence of gender on the achievement of boys and girls
  • working with teachers and parents
  • religious diversity and inclusive practice
  • including and supporting Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Transsexual (LGBT) students
  • welcoming and understanding asylum seeking and refugee students
  • disability, human rights and inclusion.

This book will enable Teaching Assistants to develop a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles of inclusive education. It provides an essential resource for Teaching Assistants and all those working in Education.

chapter 1|12 pages

Inclusive education

The key role of Teaching Assistants

chapter 2|8 pages

Listening to learners

Whose voice counts?

chapter 3|10 pages

Gypsy, Roma and Traveller pupils

Underachievement and building relationships for inclusion

chapter 4|11 pages

Not in my image

Ethnic diversity in the classroom

chapter 9|12 pages

A new role for special schools?

chapter 10|12 pages

‘The Learning Support staff's brilliant …’

Facilitating asylum-seeking and refugee students in British schools

chapter 11|11 pages

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual and at school

Experiences and reflections

chapter 12|12 pages

Challenging behaviour

Understanding the issues and providing support