We are all special

Our ethos at St Albert the Great College is “Because we are a Catholic school, we welcome everyone, we care, we seek fulfilment and we read and change the world”. The course We are all special: Inclusion and support for students with special needs, in and out of the classroom, was identified by the college as part of a professional development programme aimed to continue implementing our inclusive ethos. The sessions were held in Florence, Italy and were carried out by a professional trainer from Europass Academy. Educators from six different European countries (Malta, Poland, Spain, Croatia, Germany and Latvia) participated in the course.

This course offered deep knowledge of classroom dynamics, students’ well-being and the learning environment. The course provided an overview of the main disabilities including learning difficulties (dyslexia, dyspraxia), emotional and behavioural disorders (ADHD, ADD, trauma) and developmental disabilities (autism). Also, during the course we were exposed to different technological tools, models and practical activities to create a positive school environment.

In this course we gained insights on emotional intelligence and positive psychology. Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to perceive, control and evaluate emotions. The ability to express and control emotions is essential but so is the ability to understand, interpret and respond to the emotions of others.

On an individual level, strong emotional intelligence is linked to better learning and academic performance. It is important that both educators and students are aware of their emotions. It was emphasised that everyone should be aware of one’s strengths and lesser strengths. Educators should take care of their wellbeing as one cannot pour from an empty cup. In addition, we explored effective relaxation techniques and movement-based exercises to be used with all the students.

We also gained insights on strategies to deal with challenging behaviour. It is encouraged to have clear rules, referred to as the “container” and students are aware of this so they can move freely within it. One phrase we’re taking back with us in the classroom is that “behind every behaviour there are emotions and behind every emotion there are needs”. The importance of handson activities with emphasis on respect, during the first few days of the scholastic year was highlighted. This prevents isolation and disruptive behaviours and encourages peer engagement and peer support.

Participants presented their school inclusive cultures. All the participants shared their experiences in class, their good practices and their challenges. Together we came up with useful strategies that can be implemented in our respective classes to encourage inclusion.

We would like to thank the school’s Senior Leadership team for this experience as well as the European Union Programme Agency (EUPA) for providing the necessary funds for the Erasmus+ project.