Masters Degrees (Special)

Primary: Have satisfactorily completed their probationary period. Be qualified teachers who hold
A) position in a sanctioned post in an area of special education or learning support, or taking up such posts in September.
B) position as mainstream class teacher and has contact with children with special educational needs

Post Primary: Must be qualified teachers who hold
A) position in a sanctioned post in an area of special education or learning support, or taking up such posts in September
B) position as mainstream class teacher and has at least 10 hours of contact time with children with special educational needs

Special Schools: Special School teachers. Qualified teachers who hold a position in a sanctioned post in a Special School or are taking up such posts in September.

Other Educational Services: Qualified teachers employed by VECs as literacy and/or numeracy tutors in Youthreach and who are assigned to Learning Support work (with individuals, groups or classes of not more than 15 pupils) for a minimum of 10 hours per week. At least four class periods should be allocated to teaching individuals or groups of not more than six students.

It is particularly important that, in their schools, teachers participating in the programme are given the type/level of duties and teaching responsibilities (as required by the programme providers) which will permit them to benefit fully from the training being offered.

Overview

This Postgraduate Diploma in Special Educational Needs is a recognised postgraduate qualification for teachers working in the area of special educational needs and learning support in mainstream primary and post primary schools and for teachers in special classes/units, special schools and other relevant educational settings. The aim of the programme is to provide substantial theoretical and practical training for teachers working with pupils with special educational needs and pupils who require learning support.

See the website https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/froebel-department-primary-and-early-childhood-education/our-courses/postgraduate-diploma-special-educational-needs

Course Structure

The programme runs from September until May and is delivered by a core team supported by a cohort of associate lecturers with a wide range of expertise. Issues pertaining to inclusive education and special needs will be explored and teachers are supported in implementing skills to support the learning and teaching of students with special educational needs. The programme also includes supervised work in the teachers’ own school and supported ongoing study throughout the year using a variety of modes of content delivery. In addition, it also involves online and distance learning and teachers will be required to attend lectures and workshops at Froebel Dept in Maynooth over the course of approximately 15 weekends (Friday 4pm-8pm and Saturday 9-4pm).

Career Options

Graduates of the course will be better equipped to address the ever changing challenges of the modern educational environment in mainstream or special schools. Graduates will be qualified to work as educators in the area of special education i.e. as special class teachers, learning support teachers or resource teachers.

How To Apply

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity



As part of the application process you will be required to upload the following:

Transcripts

Evidence of Garda Clearance

Evidence of Teaching Council registration

Two references

Letter from your Principal confirming that you meet the minimum required contact hours with students with SEN (10 hours) and that you are on a fixed contract or in a permanent position.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/postgraduate-studies/fees-funding-scholarships

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The Special and Inclusive Education MA will develop a student's knowledge of key concepts and issues related to special and inclusive education, enhancing their understanding of disciplinary and theoretical perspectives. It will give students the ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise evidence, theory and practice, and help them to apply conceptual and theoretical frameworks to professional policy and practice.

Degree information

By the end of the programme, students should be able to:
-Contribute to contemporary international and national debate in the field of special education and inclusion and disability studies.
-Produce and communicate evidence-informed, reasoned argument in writing and orally.
-Demonstrate how concepts, theories and evidence can inform an understanding of issues and practice.
-Carry out a focused special, and inclusive education inquiry into educational practice.
-Enhance professional practice through greater knowledge, skills, understanding and awareness.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two core modules (60 credits), optional modules and either a research report (30 credits) or a dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules
-Concepts and Contexts of Special and Inclusive Education
-Research Design and Methodology

Optional modules - in addition to the two core modules students take at least one module from the following:
-Autrism: Research and Practice
-Inclusive Pedagogy: Changing Practice through Action Research
-Language Development
-Psychology for Special Needs
-Social, Emotional and Behavioural Development
-Understanding SpLD (Dyslexia)

Students choose either one or two further options from the list above or, subject to the Programme Leader's approval, from elsewhere at the UCL Institute of Education.

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a 10,000 to 12,000-word dissertation or 6,000 to 7,000-word report.

Teaching and learning
The MA is taught through lectures, group discussions, small group one-to-one tutorials, and computer lab classes. Compulsory and optional modules are assessed by range of assessment strategies including presentations and a 4,000-5,000 word written assignment; students may choose from a range of assessment titles. In addition, students may choose to write either a report (6,000-7,000 words) or a dissertation (10,000-12,000 words).

NB: this MA is not a teacher training programme and does not aim to train students via school-based training and teaching placements.

Careers

Graduates of this programme are currently working across a broad range of areas. Some are working as managers in mainstream and special schools and other educational settings, while others support those with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities directly. Graduates can also be found working as staff in specialist services for children and young people with SEN and/or disabilities.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Secondary School Teacher (IT), Langley Park School
-Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teacher, Special School of Piraeus
-Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant, Grange Primary School
-Special Needs Support Assistant, The UCL Academy
-Behavioural Co-Ordinator, The National Autistic Society

Why study this degree at UCL?

This programme provides students with the opportunity to study in one of the country's leading specialist departments in special educational needs and disability (SEND), and educational psychology, working with internationally-recognised tutors who have published widely in the areas of special education, inclusion and disability studies, and who contribute to Master's and doctoral programmes worldwide.

The programme team is committed to creating an intellectually challenging context in which students are encouraged to discuss practical knowledge, experience and ideas in order to extend their understanding of special and inclusive education.

This programme attracts students with rich and varied professional and personal experience, both nationally and internationally, and fellow students provide a valuable networking resource.

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Overview

The aim of the Master of Special Education is to provide a coherent program of study and professional experience to prepare students for the advanced professional duties of a qualified special educator working in either inclusive or specialised settings. The program focuses on evidence-based practice and the practical application of skills and knowledge to teaching practice. Students will become critical consumers of special education research and apply research principles to a small-scale project. The program incorporates flexible modes of delivery and is particularly suited to part-time study for practising professionals. Professional experience is an integral part of the program.

A prior teaching qualification is not required unless you want to work as a special education teacher in schools.

See the website http://courses.mq.edu.au/international/postgraduate/master/master-of-special-education

Key benefits

- All materials inlcluding seminars, will be available online, allowing greater flexibility
- You will complete two practicum placements in special education settings and SPED828, the capstone unit, involves working with students with special education needs in the student's current workplace or a practicum setting.
- As there is a shortage of qualified special educators across Australia graduates are in demand
- You will be taught by academics leading research in special education

Suitable for

Suitable if you are a teacher, special education teacher or in another career that involves working with people with disabilities.

Recognition of prior learning

As this course is a professional qualification RPL is rarely given. In certain circumstances students may apply for RPL for specific units at postgraduate level.

Work experience requirements

Macquarie University may recognise prior formal, informal and non-formal learning for the purpose of granting credit towards, or admission into, a program. The recognition of these forms of learning is enabled by the University’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy and its associated Procedures and Guidelines. For recognition of prior informal and non-formal learning, please refer to the Departmental RPL Plan, which describes the evidential requirements and approval processes for recognising prior learning for entry or credit in this program.

English language requirements

IELTS of 7.5 overall (with minimum 7.0 in Reading, 7.0 in Writing, 8.0 in Listening, 8.0 in Speaking) or equivalent

All applicants for undergraduate or postgraduate coursework studies at Macquarie University are required to provide evidence of proficiency in English.
For more information see English Language Requirements. http://mq.edu.au/study/international/how_to_apply/english_language_requirements/

You may satisfy the English language requirements if you have completed:
- senior secondary studies equivalent to the NSW HSC
- one year of Australian or comparable tertiary study in a country of qualification

Careers

- Accreditation
The Master of Special Education is a recognised teaching qualification in special education, though an initial teaching qualification is required to teach in schools. Postgraduate training may be recognised towards professional development requirements with the NSW Institute of Teachers.

- Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program may be employed as special education teachers or in related professional areas such as disability services, post-school employment support, respite care, early intervention etc.
There is a shortage of qualified special educators across Australia.
Note that if you wish to be employed as a teacher in a school, you will need to have a recognised teaching qualification in addition to this course.

- Employers
Schools or other organisations providing services for individuals with disabilities and/or learning or behaviour difficulties.

See the website http://courses.mq.edu.au/international/postgraduate/master/master-of-special-education

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With small class sizes, your professors get to know you—an advantage when it’s time to ask for a letter of reference. You’ll also gain more from class discussions in a small-classroom setting.

If your goal is to make the most out of your degree in special education, the MEd in Special Education and Special Education certificate is perfect for you. In addition to learning how to create curricula to meet individual needs of students with disabilities, IUP enables you to pursue your Special Education certificate at the same time. This leads to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania certification in Special Education-all while you earn your MEd in Exceptional Persons.

In addition to offering this track in a flexible, hybrid format, both in-class and online, IUP also offers two other tracks: the MEd in Special Education, or the Special Education Certification Only track.

AS A STUDENT YOU WILL

-Learn from a mix of classes and teaching field experiences designated by Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements.
-Choose between a thesis and non-thesis option.
-Select your electives working in conjunction with your advisor.
-Complete a comprehensive examination as your terminal experience in the course.

If you currently hold teaching certification and are seeking additional certification in special education, you will develop a program of study based upon your past coursework. You will be required to demonstrate competency in teaching methods, child development, and any other area of deficiency noted by the graduate program faculty.

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The Primary PGCE with SEN: Special Schools is designed to support trainees in developing the skills, values, knowledge and understanding required to meet the Teachers’ Standards. The programme will do this in the context of east London schools where it is paramount that teachers have the ability to support learning in a multicultural, multilingual urban environment. The Primary PGCE with SEN: Special Schools aims to equip trainees with additional expertise in working and developing practice in special schools.

If you choose to study Primary with Special Educational Needs: Special Schools at UEL you will:
• develop your knowledge, skills and understanding of what it means to be a professional in school;
• engage in practical and theoretical enquiry as a key element in your development as a teacher;
• reflect on and take responsibility for your own professional development;
• have the necessary experiences to meet the Teachers’ Standards;
• acquire the skills, knowledge and understanding to develop additional expertise in supporting pupils with EAL;
• be able to respond proactively and positively to change and thus enabled to make informed contributions to education;
• develop your ability to read and write critically at Masters Level.


Primary PGCE at UEL
The Primary PGCE with SEN: Special Schools is a partnership programme, written and developed in collaboration with schools. Much of your time will be spent in schools, observing learning and teaching, exploring the interface between theory and practice and working with pupils in a range of classroom settings. You will be an active participant in a diverse community of students. Inclusion, personalisation, and pupil voice are some of the key themes and values underpinning the programme. You will engage with research at Masters level.

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This course has been developed for those who are currently working as special educational needs coordinators (SENCOs) and is mandatory for all SENCOs appointed since 2008. This course will enable you to meet the learning outcomes as prescribed by the government.

You about skills and approaches to leadership; and to develop and evaluate inclusive cultures, systems and approaches to education. These new skills help you to make a difference in your school and to the wellbeing, participation and achievement of children and young people who have special educational needs and disabilities.

You reflect on, analyse and respond to current issues of practice through professional learning in the workplace and you are supported by experienced local special educational needs and disability (SEND) professionals as well as a mentor in your own school.

You develop

• a critical understanding of the values, principles and dilemmas of inclusive practices and policies
• a specialist knowledge base enabling you to obtain, evaluate and communicate current information regarding special educational needs and disabilities.
• an active community of practice with SENCOs and experienced SEN professionals supporting your leadership of change
• the skills and practices of reflective practice to develop effective partnership working with pupils, families and colleagues
• the skills and practices of professional enquiry to enable you to evaluate the impact of practice

You have access to current SEND practitioners and experts in the field who share up-to-date practice. Your university tutors specialise in SEND and have complementary experience across age phases and special and mainstream schools. Their expertise supports your understanding of inclusive principles and practice, using research and theory to support your reflections, enquiries and study skills.

You complete a number of assessments that are focused on the development of effective practice in your school. Assessments consist of two practice-based portfolios

Portfolio 1 – SENCO as manager

This consists of

• an evaluation of school policy relating to special educational needs and disability in relation to current national policy and guidance. This involves engaging with parent's in order to inform policy.
• an evaluation of the school’s additional provision for children and young people with special educational needs. This includes an analysis of school data and lesson study to inform effective provision mapping

Portfolio 2 – SENCO as leader

This consists of

• developing the role of SENCO as leader through evaluating and developing effective partnerships with other stakeholders
• engaging with pupil voice in order to inform professional learning developments and to support colleagues in making effective provision for children with particular SEN or disability

Further information

For more information regarding our routes into teaching, including funding, placements, QTS skills tests and career prospects visit our teach site.

Course structure

12 months part-time

You attend up to ten teaching/tutorial/study days which are spread over the course duration.

Core modules

• SENCO as manager: evaluation and developing policy and provision

This module enables special educational needs coordinators (SENCOs) to engage critically with their management role evaluating, reporting on and developing policy, systems and provision in the context of national legislation and guidance, current knowledge on effective practice and wider equality and human rights agendas.

• SENCO as leader: people, principles and partnerships

This module enables special educational needs coordinators (SENCOs) to engage critically with their leadership role in the context of the principles of inclusion, person centred planning and working in partnership with colleagues, children and young people and their families.

Modules

Modules cover • inclusive principles and values • social and medical modules of disability • the role of the SENCO in analysing organisational needs and managing change • the national policy context for SEN and disability including the SEN Code of Practice • equality and data protection requirements • formulating and reviewing policy • accessing and interpreting school data - tracking progression and participation • provision mapping • designing, evaluating and reporting on systems and provision • lesson study and action research methods • rights and duties under equality legislation • person centred planning and partnership working • the local context for the implementation of Child Assessment Framework (CAF), school support and Education Health Care Plans (EHCPs) • leadership • role of the SENCO in leading professional learning • holistic assessment • researching and evaluatiing current knowledge and debates regarding high incidence special educational needs and disabilities • theories of learning and development • identifying needs and barriers to learning and participation • systematic evaluation in professional contexts

Assessment

Portfolio 1 – evaluation and review of policy, and analysis of additional provision for children and young people with SEN.

Portfolio 2 – evaluation of partnership with stakeholders, and planning for strategic professional learning.

Employability

This course enhances your skills as a special educational needs co-ordinator so you can continue to improve the school experience for children with SENs or disability and to support the developing practice of other professionals working in your school or setting. It also develops your leadership skills, enabling you to explore whole issues and development. It is also suitable if you want to work in an advisory or support role in the area of SEND.

Academic credits gained by successfully completing this course can be used towards a masters degree.

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The National Award for Special Educational Needs Co-ordination (NASENCO) is a legally required qualification for all new Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (SENCOs).

This course will support you to improve your knowledge of current legislation, theory and practice in Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) provision in schools/colleges and your skills in meeting those needs.

This course will assist you to fulfil your leadership role as outlined in the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice for 0 to 25 years (DfE, 2014):

• Overseeing the operation of the institution’s SEN policy
• Coordinating provision for SEND
• Liaising with the relevant designated teacher where a looked after pupil has SEN
• Advising on a graduated approach to providing SEN Support and effective deployment of the institution’s delegated budget and other resources
• Liaising with families of children with SEN, other schools and relevant external professionals/ agencies
• Liaising with potential next providers of education and consulting young people and families to ensure a smooth transition is planned
• Working with the head teacher and school governors to ensure that the school conforms to the Equality Act (2010)
• Ensuring that the institution keeps records of young people with SEN up to date.

You will be able to tailor the three assignments to fit your, and your institution’s, needs.

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/education-national-award-for-special-educational-needs-co-ordinators

Course detail

• Study on a course designed for to develop SENCOs’ professional attributes and knowledge, understanding and skills, to enable you to fulfil the leadership role set out in the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice for 0 to 25 years (DfE, 2014).
• Explore course content highly relevant to mainstream and special school practitioners alike, focusing on issues related to literacy difficulties and dyslexia in schools, and how potential barriers to learning can be removed
• Develop your understanding of concepts, theories and approaches to literacy difficulties, including dyslexia, and inclusion in schools, and on your potential for influencing change
• Gain insight into the learning of dyslexic and other pupils/students who experience difficulties in literacy development/specific learning difficulties, and ways in which learning might be more effectively supported
• Benefit from a qualification that could be used as the basis for a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) claim into an MA Education course (Level 7).

Modules

• Introduction to special educational needs co-ordination in schools
• Further development of special educational needs co-ordination in schools

Assessment

Your individual development is assessed via six diagnostic, formative and summative assessments.

The first assessment in Unit 1 requires application of personal understanding of current legislation to individual contexts and critical reflection on the extent to which current school/institutional practice is inclusive and compliant with the law.

Assessments then focus on critical application of assessment theory to individual learning and behaviour needs, the design, development, and implementation of an individual plan linked to needs, and critical analysis of the effectiveness of this, with implications for future plans.

Assessments in Unit 2 relate to institutional level: analysis and reflection on current school/college policy in SEND and inclusive practices; analysis of areas for improvement in institutional SEND provision; the design, development, implementation, critical evaluation, and reporting on a small-scale practitioner research project focused on achieving the desired improvement.

Careers

The course is specifically designed to enable you to meet the learning outcomes for the qualification (NASENCO) that is legally required for all new SENCOs in schools. It enables you to fulfil the leadership role of SENCO in a school with greater confidence, competence and from a much better-informed position.

After graduating you will be in a good position to apply for positions of greater responsibility in schools/colleges.

The units on this course can be used as a short route to an MA Education (Special Educational Needs), providing 60 credits of recognised prior learning.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

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The College of Community and Public Affairs (CCPA) offers several advanced certification programs that culminate in a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) degree in Special Education. Four program options are available, corresponding with the age/grade level of the applicant's initial certificate:

-Early Childhood Special Education - Birth to Grade 2 (requires initial certification in early childhood education)

-Early Childhood and Childhood Special Education - Birth to Grade 6 (requires initial certification in early childhood and childhood education)

-Childhood Special Education - Grades 1 to 6 (requires initial certification in childhood education)

-Adolescence Special Education - Grades 7 to 12 (requires initial certification in a subject area)

This program is designed to prepare teachers to operationalize “least restrictive environment” philosophies for children and youth with disabilities. Core themes include collaboration with families and other professionals and pedagogy that respects and responds to individual differences. For teachers with initial certification, this program provides knowledge and skills to fulfill various special education teacher roles in today's schools. Sufficient flexibility exists for individuals from undergraduate programs in special education to either deepen their skills in the field or link their special education foundation with the larger context of general education. Similarly, graduates of early childhood, childhood or adolescence education programs may extend their knowledge and skills with students needing special education.

Professional Development

In addition to graduate courses suited to the degree you choose to pursue, fieldwork and student teaching are important components to the program. The program boasts strong content speciality as well as diverse student and faculty background. Faculty advisors and office staff are eager to assist students in tailoring their course of study and field placements. Students are encouraged to take advantage of a well-established network of alumni and professional connections that will help with field visits and placement. There are urban, suburban and rural schools in close proximity where student teaching opportunities are available.

After You Graduate

The completion of this degree and other requirements leads to a New York State certification as a special education teacher. Employment opportunities for teachers have improved significantly over the last few years. Alumni of our programs in education teach at numerous schools regionally and around the country. Due to strict licensure rules, a New York State teaching license is well respected across the nation. Typically, graduates of the programs easily find employment as teachers in other states.

All applicants must submit the following:

- Online graduate degree application and application fee

- Transcripts from each college/university which you have attended

- Two letters of recommendation (the CCPA will accept additional letters of recommendation)

- Personal statement (Please see the CCPA Admissions website for additional information about the personal statement)

- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages)

- Teaching certification for in-service applicants

- Any program-specific materials (please see the CCPA Admissions website for details)

And, for international applicants:

- International Student Financial Statement form

- Official bank statement/proof of support

- Official TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic scores

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The Special and Inclusive Education MA will develop a student's knowledge of key concepts and issues related to special and inclusive education, enhancing their understanding of disciplinary and theoretical perspectives. It will give students the ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise evidence, theory and practice, and help them to apply conceptual and theoretical frameworks to professional policy and practice.

Degree information

Graduates will be equipped to contribute to contemporary international and national debate in the field of special education and inclusion and disability studies; produce and communicate evidence-informed, reasoned argument in writing and orally; demonstrate how concepts, theories and evidence can inform an understanding of issues and practice; carry out a focused special, and inclusive education inquiry into educational practice; enhance professional practice through greater knowledge, skills, understanding and awareness.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four taught modules (30 credits each) and a dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules
- Concepts and Contexts of Special and Inclusive Education (Cairo)
- Research Design and Methodology (Cairo)
- Social, Emotional and Behavioural Development (Cairo)
- Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia)

Dissertation/research project
All students undertake an independent research project in special and inclusive education which culminates in a 10,000 to 12,000-word dissertation.

Teaching and learning
This MA is taught by UCL Institute of Education tutors in Cairo, Egypt. The programme is modular; two to three modules are taught each year and these will vary from year to year to cover the full requirement of the MA. Modules are taught in intensive blocks of four days at the Learning Resource Center in Maadi, Cairo. Skype meetings and tutorials are available for all students enrolled on this programme of study.

The MA is taught through lectures, group discussions and small group one-to-one tutorials. Modules are assessed by a 4,000 to 5,000-word written assignment. In addition, students write a dissertation (10,000-12,000 words).

Note: this MA is not a teacher training programme and does not aim to train students via school-based training and teaching placements.

Careers

This programme provides students with the opportunity to study at one of the UK's leading specialist departments in special educational needs and disability (SEND), and educational psychology, working with internationally recognised tutors who have published widely in the areas of special education, inclusion and disability studies, and who contribute to Master's and doctoral programmes worldwide. Note: this programe is only available to students living and working full-time in Egypt.

The programme team is committed to creating an intellectually challenging context in which students are encouraged to discuss practical knowledge, experience and ideas in order to extend their understanding of special and inclusive education.

This programme attracts students with rich and varied professional and personal experience.

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As contemporary societies become more heterogeneous, and as inclusive education reforms gain currency across the world, educational systems are being challenged to address some fundamental questions about teaching - learning related to the accommodation of difference. Likewise, the educational special needs task is being radically re-conceptualised.

Meeting the diversity of learner needs within today’s classrooms and schools is one of the most challenging and important tasks facing education today. Drawing on research-based practice, the MEd in Inclusion and Special Needs Education addresses these challenges in a straightforward, supportive and practical way. The programme aims to develop forms of teaching that reach out to all learners within a class, as well as the establishment of school conditions that will encourage such developments.

Why Inclusion and Special Needs Education at Queen's?

◦As a prestigious Russell Group University, Queen’s is ranked 8th within the UK in relation to research intensity;
◦ Education at Queen’s has been ranked 4th within the UK in relation to research intensity with 87% of the research undertaken within the School assessed as ‘internationally excellent or world leading’ (REF, 2014);
◦We provide a professional development opportunity for: mainstream primary and secondary teachers from the newly qualified phase of professional development onwards; and, individuals whose professional or voluntary roles are strongly associated with life in regular classrooms and schools e.g. School Governors, Learning and Behaviour Mentors and Classroom Assistants;
◦We understand the many demands on students’ time, so the content is delivered in a mixture of face-to-face and online formats and you can study one or more of our modules as a short course;
◦If you don’t want or need to study for the research dissertation, flexible exit qualifications (PG Diploma, PG Certificiate) are available.


[Programme Structure]]
The MEd in Inclusion and Special Needs Education is awarded to students who have successfully completed 120 CATS points from taught modules and 60 CATS points from a Master's dissertation.

Exit qualifications are available. Students may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma by successfully completing 120 CATS points from taught modules or an Postgraduate Certificate by successfully completing 60 CATS points from taught modules.

Short Courses

We've made it easy to study for a Masters module as a short course. If you would like to study for one of the modules in the MEd in Inclusion and Special Needs Education as a short course, please contact the Education Secretary (tel: 028 9097 5923/ 5032, [email protected]) for advice.

Core Modules

◦An Introduction to Research Methods: Children, Young People and Education (compulsory, online)
◦Reimagining Special Needs Education: Inclusive Pedagogy (compulsory)
◦Special Needs Education and Issues of Equity (compulsory)
◦The Intellectual Foundations of Special Education (compulsory)
Optional modules may be chosen from the School's Educational Studies (MEd) degree.

Assessment

There are no written examinations. Modules are assessed through written assignments, project reports, or online multiple choice tests and online discussion list contributions.

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This qualification is a requirement for recently appointed special educational needs coordinators (SENCO) working in the UK. The course is also highly relevant to inclusion and special educational needs leaders and managers who wish to improve the quality of inclusion and SEND provision in their setting, whether they are working in the UK or abroad.

Developed in collaboration with academic staff and expert practitioners, the course provides an exceptional distance learning programme supported by high-quality personal tutoring. Working closely with your tutor, you will undertake a thorough self-evaluation to identify gaps in your knowledge and understanding. This will help you link your learning to your professional practice and allow you to steer the direction of your development.

A virtual learning environment will enable you to connect with your personal tutor and share your experiences with your peers. You will be encouraged to collaborate with fellow students on the course and colleagues in your school in order to refine your knowledge and get the most from the programme. You will be provided with online resources, including recorded expert presentations, and key information throughout the year to help you meet the learning outcomes for your course.

Your tutor will support you in managing your programme of study. Your portfolio of evidence will include four assignments, set at regular intervals throughout the year, and will show how you have successfully met the course requirements.

Our vision for children with special educational needs and disabilities is the same as for all children and young people - that they achieve well in their early years, at school and in college, and lead happy and fulfilled lives.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: twice as many of our staff - 220 - were entered into the research assessment for 2014 compared to the number entered in 2008.

Visit the website http://courses.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/specialeducationneeds_pgcert

Mature Applicants

Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.

If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/recognition-of-prior-learning.htm).

Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.

Careers

You will be able to practise as a SENCO in any maintained school and develop the essential skills in SEN diagnosis and intervention, provision management, coaching and mentoring and working with outside agencies and stakeholders. You will also have the confidence to take on a high profile, leadership role in your school and successfully motivate other teachers to promote inclusion in their classrooms.

- SEN Co-ordinator
- SEN Teacher
- SEN Teaching Assistant
- SEN Support Worker

Careers advice: The dedicated Jobs and Careers team offers expert advice and a host of resources to help you choose and gain employment. Whether you're in your first or final year, you can speak to members of staff from our Careers Office who can offer you advice from writing a CV to searching for jobs.

Visit the careers site - https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Course Benefits

You will have access to our Library's extensive range of electronic resources, and support from your personal tutor will provide you with formative feedback to improve your learning experience.

Your course will enhance your knowledge and understanding of inclusion and special educational needs theory and practice. One of the most important goals of the course will be to grow your confidence so you can coordinate SEND provision effectively.

At the end of this course you will have completed the first 60 credits towards our MA Education qualification (Pathway: Special Educational Needs). For more information on this course, visit http://courses.leedsbeckett/education_ma.The learning outcomes will support you to develop a greater understanding of:

- Leadership and management.

- Pupil progress.

- Different types of special educational needs and their impact on learning.

- Intervention and provision management.

- The role of teaching assistants.

- Coaching and mentoring.

- Working with outside agencies and stakeholders.

Dr Michalis Kakos

Senior Lecturer

"I have taught in primary schools, pupil referral units, special, grammar, comprehensive and preparatory schools around the world. This diversity of experience enables me to question the effects of formal education on students' socialisation. I am currently studying students' political socialisation in the current economic and political turmoil in Greece."

Exploring citizenship and intercultural education as well as special educational needs, Michalis is well-versed in the issues concerning a wide spectrum of pupils and teachers.

Facilities

- Library
Our libraries are two of the only university libraries in the UK open 24/7 every day of the year. However you like to study, the libraries have got you covered with group study, silent study, extensive e-learning resources and PC suites.

- Headingley Campus
Our historic Headingley Campus is set in 100 acres of parkland with easy access to Leeds city centre.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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The programme aims to develop participants’ professional knowledge and critical understanding of key concepts and debates addressed in the academic and professional literature in order to lead and co-ordinate special educational needs and disability (SEN and D) provision across an educational setting.

Degree information

By the end of the programme students should be able to:
-Contribute to contemporary debate in the fields of both special education as well as inclusion and disability studies.
-Produce and communicate reasoned and informed reflective argument, both in writing and orally.
-Carry out a focused practitioner inquiry relating to the role of the SENCO, supported by relevant literature sources.
-Improve professional practice through greater knowledge, skills, understanding and awareness.

Students undertake modules to the value of 60 credits. The programme consists of two core modules (30 credits each). There are no optional modules on this programme.

National Award for SEN Co-ordination Postgraduate Certificate

Core modules
-Special Educational Needs Coordination: Improving Teaching and Learning
-Special Educational Needs Coordination: Leading and Managing Change

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and tutorials. Each module is delivered over six days. A Learning Log needs to be completed as the practical component. Assessment is through a practitioner enquiry assignment for both modules consisting of 4,500-5000 words each. The focus is on the practitioner as researcher within the participants’ own education institution.

Careers

Upon successful completion of this programme, students are able to transfer the 60 credits into UCL's MA in Special and Inclusive Education or MTeach in Special Educational Needs.

Employability
This programme will prepare participants for progression to employment as SEN co-ordinators or for senior leadership roles within schools in a variety of settings.

Why study this degree at UCL?

This programme is run by the SENJIT (Special Educational Needs Joint Initiative for Training) centre at UCL, which has a national and international profile in delivering Master's programmes in special educational needs (SEN). It is delivered by specialists who currently practise in the field along with researchers with international profiles in SEN, disabilities and inclusion.

Students will get the opportunity to meet regularly with colleagues working in different local authorities in London and further afield.

SENJIT offers research-informed and practice-orientated courses and knowledge exchange activities and fosters strong links with local authorities, academy federation trusts and teaching school alliances.

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This programme fulfils the need for dental practitioners to have access to a higher dental degree which provides specialist clinical training in Special Care Dentistry.

The Professional Doctorate is a research qualification that contains Professional Skills Training. Students who successfully complete the DDSc programme in Special Care Dentistry will be awarded the DDSc (Special Care Dentistry) from the University of Liverpool and will be eligible to sit the Tri-collegiate Diploma of Membership in Special Care Dentistry (MSpec Care Dent) specialty membership examination from the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) of Edinburgh, Royal College of Surgeons of England and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow.

Both the UK Specialist Curriculum in Special Care Dentistry and the tri-collegiate Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh blueprints in Special Care Dentistry are embedded into the programme. The aims and learning outcomes of the International Association for Disability and Oral Health Postgraduate Guidance in Special Care Dentistry are embedded within the programme.

An Honorary National Training Number leading to CCST may be available to suitable candidates with full GDC registration who satisfy the entry requirements to specialty clinical training in Special Care Dentistry as determined by the General Dental Council.

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The MA Special Needs and Inclusion is a distinct, multi-professional award designed for international and UK students. This course meets the growing need for professionals to have the skills and theoretical understanding necessary to work in different fields and across the life span.

Underpinned by a strong values base, it emphasises social justice and inclusive principles, whilst acknowledging and critiquing the many different perspectives in policy and practice.

Visit the website: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/courses/postgraduate/special-needs-and-inclusion.aspx

Course detail

Full time students will study three 20 credit modules each term, with sessions taught either during the day, twilight or occasionally at weekends.

Part-time students’ sessions will take place during the evening and on one Saturday each term.

All students are encouraged and supported to work collaboratively and to explore their individual interests. Blended learning materials are available to support all students.

Content

To achieve the MA Special Needs and Inclusion award you'll need to complete 3 core (compulsory) modules and 3 optional modules, plus a dissertation.

Some of the modules you could study:
• Critical Issues (Core)
• Research Methods (Core)
• Perspectives on Special Needs and Inclusion (Core)
• Contemporary Issues in Special Needs and Inclusion (Optional)
• International Perspectives in Special Needs and Inclusion (Optional)
• The Psychology of Special Needs (Optional)
• Multi-professional Working (Optional)
• Inclusive and Assistive Technology (Optional)
• Negotiated Project (Optional)

Following the successful completion of the 3 core modules and 3 other modules you'll carry on to complete a Dissertation. This is your own particular research into a topic of interest to you, identified in conjunction with your tutor.

Assessment

A variety of assessment methods, including essays, reports, case studies, presentations and professional discussions.

What can I do next?

Following the successful completion of your MA Special Needs and Inclusion there is the opportunity to study a Doctorate in Education (SEN) of PhD.

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow this link: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx

Funding

-Masters Loans-

From 2016/17 government loans of up to £10,000 are available for postgraduate Masters study. The loans will be paid directly to students by the Student Loans Company and will be subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.

For more information available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/funding-your-postgraduate-degree.aspx

-2017/18 Entry Financial Support-

Information on alternative funding sources is available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/2017-18-entry-financial-support.aspx

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If you need to get a good grounding in special educational needs, disability and inclusion at postgraduate level, this course will broaden and challenge your existing knowledge. It could be a starting point for a future career in a range of settings or help you to develop in your current role. If you are already a SENCO it will give you many skills for your role and help you develop and expand this in line with the range of special needs you may encounter.

What's covered in the course?

Our course doesn’t aim to provide you with all the answers. Instead it will enable you to explore and develop new thinking and ultimately work towards expertise in your field. If you believe that pupils with special needs have untapped potential, and you want to help them explore this, then this is the course for you. Inclusive learning and teaching are at the heart of any good practice; these modules will help you explore this further and understand the important role of nurturing development in all pupils with special educational needs.

You do not need a teaching qualification to study on this course, nor do you have to intend becoming a teacher. We welcome anyone who wants to expand their understanding, knowledge and skill set in the changing world of special education and disability. 

You’ll have the opportunity to explore how the education system works for special needs and disability, how it all evolved and the challenges it poses for these pupils. You’ll broaden your knowledge on the range of conditions and their impact on learning and develop new teaching skills to help pupils overcome their day to day challenges. The focus of all modules will be critical thinking, challenging and developing your knowledge to enable you to become an expert in your field.

Why choose us?

• This course is delivered by qualified lecturer practitioners from NICE – Centre for Movement Disorders, making it a unique partnership merging theory and practice.
• We’re proud of our high employability rates, with 98 per cent of the School’s postgraduate students in employment or further study six months after their course (DLHE survey results 2014/15).
• The course focuses on development of pupil potential and how to meet all needs to promote a more effective teaching/classroom environment.
• You will develop new ways of thinking and new skills to enhance your impact on the development and learning of these special pupils.
• You can use this course to put you at the forefront of professional practice in special education and more importantly explore new potential in your pupils.
• This recognised qualification will help you to meet a variety of Continuing Professional Development requirements.
• You can use evidence of previous study or relevant experience to claim Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

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