I am a part-time integration assistant supporting a statemented child. The rest of my day in school is spent working as a special needs learning assistant. In all I support approximately 35 children, all of whom are on the special needs register. I work closely with the school special needs co-ordinator to plan learning activities. The main difference between the teachers and myself is that I do not have to plan lessons. Where teachers need some research done on a condition that might be affecting a class member they come to me for advice, information, ideas and strategies, so that they can better deal with the situation.
I am a part-time integration assistant supporting a statemented child. The rest of my day in school is spent working as a special needs learning assistant. In all I support approximately 35 children, all of whom are on the special needs register. I work closely with the school special needs co-ordinator to plan learning activities.
The main difference between the teachers and myself is that I do not have to plan lessons. Where teachers need some research done on a condition that might be affecting a class member they come to me for advice, information, ideas and strategies, so that they can better deal with the situation.
I would do my job free of charge if I was not a single parent with my own family to take care of. I am just as committed to the children and the school as any other member of the staff, but I do not feel recognised for my efforts by the Government or the local authority.
Marie Miles, Birmingham
