Helping ECTs Build Confidence with SEND and Behaviour

Managing behaviour while meeting the needs of pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can be one of the biggest challenges for an Early Career Teacher.

So how can new teachers build inclusive classrooms while developing the confidence to respond to the individual needs of their pupils?

In this episode of the Connecting Classrooms Podcast, Grant speaks to Thomas Bywater, SENCO at Glebefields Primary School, about the practical lessons he has learned from ten years in the classroom and his experience as a SENCO.

From behaviour and relationships to inclusive lesson planning and working with parents, Thomas shares advice for ECTs who are still finding their feet with SEND.

Is behaviour always what it seems?

When a pupil refuses to complete their work, becomes disruptive or reacts unexpectedly, it can be easy to focus on the behaviour you can see.

Thomas encourages teachers to look a little deeper.

What could that pupil be trying to communicate? And how could understanding what sits behind a behaviour change the way a teacher responds?

It's a shift in perspective that can make a significant difference to both the pupil and the teacher.

We’ll leave Thomas to explain exactly what that looks like in the classroom.

Building relationships from day one

For Thomas, supporting pupils with SEND isn't only about interventions, resources or adapting lessons.

Relationships matter too.

The conversation explores how seemingly small interactions can help teachers build trust with their pupils and why understanding what motivates an individual child can be particularly valuable when behaviour becomes challenging.

Thomas also discusses giving pupils responsibility and how this can help children feel that they are a valued part of their classroom community.

Could inclusive lesson planning start somewhere different?

How do you plan a lesson that meets the needs of the whole class?

Thomas challenges ECTs to think differently about where that process begins.

Rather than creating a lesson and then considering how it could be adapted, he explores what can happen when accessibility is considered from the outset.

The discussion covers routines, classroom structures and practical approaches that can support pupils with additional needs without losing sight of the rest of the class.

A conversation for ECTs and the people supporting them

Thomas is open about the fact that there is no single strategy that will work for every pupil or every classroom.

The episode also explores emotional coaching, working with parents and carers, learning from experienced colleagues and why new teachers shouldn't expect themselves to have all the answers immediately.

If you are an ECT, Teacher, SENCO, Inclusion Lead or school leader supporting teachers at the beginning of their careers, this episode offers plenty of practical SEND and behaviour insight.

Watch or listen to the full Connecting Classrooms episode on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Looking for your next teaching role?

Building confidence as an ECT takes experience, and having the right school around you can make a real difference.

Flourish Education works with Early Career Teachers looking to build their classroom experience through supply teaching as well as those searching for long-term and permanent teaching opportunities.

As your local education recruitment agency, we'll take the time to understand the type of school and role you're looking for and support you throughout your job search.

Looking for your next opportunity? Browse our latest teaching vacancies or contact our team to discuss your next step.