Supporting SEND - Observing Learners in Northern Ireland

Thanks to Lois Totton (Senior Lecturer, Stranmillis University College) and Dr Brenda Montgomery (Chair of the nasen Northern Ireland Advisory Group); this “Observing Learners” resource has been adapted to support educational professionals and practitioners in Northern Ireland.

The resource provides guidance and suggestions about effective observation and how to use a range of observation techniques in a range of contexts to support learners including those with SEND.

It will be of particular interest for teaching and non teaching staff involved in Early Years and Foundation Stage, but is also applicable to practitioners involved in the delivery of the Northern Ireland Curriculum at all Key Stages.

This resource will also provide practitioners with a better understanding and knowledge of how “Observing Learners” can be a useful strategy to improve teaching and learning, identify and support children and young people with SEND and meet the needs of individual pupils, as required by the Northern Ireland legislation and the Northern Ireland School Improvement Policy.

This resource was first published in February 2020 and was last reviewed in October 2023.