7 Resources for 11 Plus Tutors for Teaching Kids With Special Considerations

Supporting students with special considerations in their 11 Plus preparation requires sensitivity, creativity, and access to the right tools and resources. As an educator, equipping yourself with specialised materials can make all the difference in tailoring your teaching approach to meet the unique needs of each learner.

From accessible practice papers to inclusive teaching strategies, here’s a comprehensive guide to resources for 11 Plus tutors that can help these students effectively.

Accessible Practice Papers for Diverse Needs

Finding practice papers designed for children with special considerations is a cornerstone for inclusive 11 Plus preparation. Several publishers and educational websites now offer adapted materials catering to specific needs, such as dyslexia, ADHD, or visual impairments.

For instance, CGP and Bond provide practice papers with larger fonts and simplified layouts, helping to reduce cognitive load for students who may find traditional formats overwhelming.

Additionally, publishers like Galore Park offer subject-specific resources that break down complex questions into smaller, manageable steps, making the material more digestible. These papers are not only functional but also allow students to build confidence in a supportive way.

Professional Development Courses on Inclusive Teaching

Continuously enhancing your teaching skills is vital when working with students requiring special provisions. Platforms such as the National Association for Special Educational Needs (NASEN) provide targeted courses for educators, covering strategies for teaching children with learning differences.

Their online modules focus on practical approaches, such as breaking down instructions, using multi-sensory techniques, and fostering a growth mindset in students who may struggle with self-esteem. The British Dyslexia Association also offers accredited training programmes tailored for tutors, ensuring that you have the knowledge to adapt your teaching methods to individual learning profiles effectively.

Assistive Technology for Tailored Support

The role of technology in supporting students with special considerations cannot be understated. Tools such as text-to-speech software, like NaturalReader, or speech-to-text applications, like Dragon NaturallySpeaking, can significantly aid students with reading or writing difficulties.

Apps such as C-Pen Exam Reader are particularly useful for students with dyslexia, as they allow users to scan text and hear it read aloud, helping them stay engaged with the material.

For students with ADHD, apps like Brain.fm provide focused music designed to reduce distractions and improve concentration during study sessions. These technologies not only enhance learning but also empower students by providing them with tools they can use independently.

Books and Guides for Understanding Learning Differences

Books written by specialists in education and child psychology can be invaluable in deepening your understanding of how to teach children with special considerations. Titles such as The Dyslexia Empowerment Plan by Ben Foss and Smart but Scattered by Peg Dawson and Richard Guare provide insights into the challenges faced by students and offer practical solutions for overcoming these obstacles.

Similarly, Teaching Students with Special Needs in Inclusive Classrooms by Diane P. Bryant is a comprehensive guide that addresses a wide range of learning differences and how to accommodate them within standard educational frameworks. By integrating these insights into your teaching, you can build a more inclusive and empathetic approach to tutoring.

Online Communities and Support Networks

Engaging with communities of like-minded educators can offer fresh perspectives and practical tips for teaching children with special considerations.

Websites such as TES (Times Educational Supplement) host forums where tutors can exchange ideas, share resources, and discuss challenges. Social media groups focused on special education, such as those on Facebook or LinkedIn, are also vibrant spaces for connecting with other professionals.

These platforms often highlight new teaching tools, resources, and even success stories that can inspire your own practice. Regular participation in such networks ensures you stay informed and feel supported as you navigate the complexities of inclusive education.

Customisable Timetables and Organisation Tools

Organisation can often pose a challenge for students with special considerations, which is why providing them with customisable study timetables is so important. Tools like Canva and Microsoft Excel allow tutors to create visually engaging schedules tailored to each student’s needs.

Colour-coded blocks, breaks between tasks, and a clear focus on short, achievable goals can make the entire 11 Plus preparation journey less daunting. These tools not only foster better time management but also encourage students to take ownership of their learning process.

Workshops and Webinars on Mental Well-being

Preparing for the 11 Plus can be stressful for any child, but for students with special considerations, this stress can be compounded. Workshops and webinars that address mental well-being are crucial for fostering a healthy learning environment.

Organisations such as YoungMinds and Place2Be offer resources for educators, focusing on promoting emotional resilience and managing anxiety in children. Incorporating mindfulness exercises, relaxation techniques, and open conversations into your sessions can make a significant impact on a student’s overall performance and confidence.

Summary

Teaching students with special considerations for the 11 Plus is a rewarding challenge that requires the right balance of empathy, skill, and resources. By integrating accessible practice papers, assistive technology, professional training, and a strong focus on mental well-being into your approach, you can provide a holistic and inclusive learning experience.

These resources not only help tutors deliver effective lessons but also empower students to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Through dedication and adaptability, educators can truly make a meaningful difference in the lives of their learners.