Remote lessons keep college students learning
Virtual lessons are being delivered to help students develop during the lockdown.
Sunderland College is delivering vital remote speech and language sessions during lockdown to students with SEND and their families.
Speech and language therapist Nicola Gallagher, a member of the college’s specialist Foundation Learning Team, is providing one to one support online so students can continue to develop their social skills and emotional resilience while at home.
So far, 20 hours of contact time has been provided to 12 students using devices such as iPads, telephone and email.
Nicola, who was with the NHS prior to joining the college, said: “I used my skills and knowledge to develop solutions of how to help our students remotely, and interacting with them in a holistic and therapeutic manner.
“At this time, more than ever, students need their voices to be heard, especially those who are non-verbal.
“One of our students asked for a sausage sandwich which is a huge achievement as before he would have struggled with any request. Parents can see this progress and it empowers them in the communication of their child.”
Although the sessions are delivered directly to each student, parents are encouraged to join in so they can learn new tips and strategies.
Nicola added: “I normally meet and chat with parents on a regular basis and this is the perfect time to continue building their skills and getting them involved.
“I always like to make things fun and have a laugh as this time is so uncertain so hopefully my sessions can provide some regularity at this difficult time.”