In most schools we have so-called mixed classes. There are children with different abilities, who struggle in everyday situations, especially in classes. There are many children with special needs and teachers have to deal with all students in the class regardless of their abilities. The participants will improve their theoretical knowledge and expertise in the area of special needs children, they will be introduced to main disabilities such as learning disabilities (dyslexia, dyspraxia), emotional and behavioral disorders (ADHD, ADD, Depression, Bipolar), intellectual and physical disabilities and impairment, developmental disabilities (Autism). They will also be encouraged to share their experiences and difficulties they may have encountered in their profession. The participants have a chance to see and try many different methods and activities suitable for working with special needs children. They will see how to adapt existing tasks and assignments in a way that they suit the needs of mixed ability classes.

The main objective of this course is to prepare and support teachers to work effectively with different special needs and to create an inclusive school environment for all the learners while teaching different subjects and how to prevent labeling, isolation, or bullying towards students with special needs. The participants will also practice using evidence-based practices to provide effective interventions and explore typical strengths and weaknesses of individuals with special needs. Participants will be trained in the use of positive and practical strategies to improve effective communication with parents and with the rest of the class.

DAY 1 SUNDAY

• Participants arrival
• Practical information about the city, currency, etc.

Day 2 MONDAY

• Introduction to the course, the school and the week activities
• Ice breaking activities
• Presentation of the participants’ schools
• Introduction of the term special needs and inclusion

Day 3 TUESDAY

• Main educational needs in the area of inclusion and special needs
• Learning disabilities
• Group exercises
• Practical activities

Day 4 WEDNESDAY

• Emotional and behavioral disabilities
• Methods and techniques suitable for working with special needs children
• Group exercises
• Practical activities

Day 5 THURSDAY

• Positive and practical strategies to improve effective communication with children, parents, co-workers
• Adapting existing tasks and assignments in a way that they suit the needs of mixed ability classes
• Practical activities

Day 6 FRIDAY

• Preventing labeling, isolation, or bullying of children with special needs
• Workshop “Welcome to our inclusive classroom”
• Practical activities
• Certificates ceremony
• Writing reviews