As the year draws to a close it is heartening to see the commitment of school staff to supporting students in OOHC. The OOHC team and I have been kept very busy over the past term assisting schools in the development of plans that will support students as they start “big school” or move to high school.
It is probably timely to mention that not all students who have suffered significant trauma or neglect have poor educational outcomes. Most research suggests that all it takes is for one significant adult to be a consistent, predictable and caring influence for outcomes to be greatly improved. (much like Mellow Mikan and Warren's new family in the book)
The commitment that I have seen from school staff over this term has demonstrated that there is already great recognition of the importance of relationship based practices when supporting students with additional needs. It is not just a hunch that this is the case. John Hattie in his book “Visible Learning” 2009 rates teacher/ student relationships as one of the most important influences on student achievement.
I would also like to thank the people who have supported the book. It is quite overwhelming to see how well it has been received and I am looking forward to expanding the knowledge of and in the book in 2015.
Have a great Christmas
Bruce Donaldson
It is probably timely to mention that not all students who have suffered significant trauma or neglect have poor educational outcomes. Most research suggests that all it takes is for one significant adult to be a consistent, predictable and caring influence for outcomes to be greatly improved. (much like Mellow Mikan and Warren's new family in the book)
The commitment that I have seen from school staff over this term has demonstrated that there is already great recognition of the importance of relationship based practices when supporting students with additional needs. It is not just a hunch that this is the case. John Hattie in his book “Visible Learning” 2009 rates teacher/ student relationships as one of the most important influences on student achievement.
I would also like to thank the people who have supported the book. It is quite overwhelming to see how well it has been received and I am looking forward to expanding the knowledge of and in the book in 2015.
Have a great Christmas
Bruce Donaldson