Q&A with Claire Williams
Claire is a school Special Educational Needs & Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo). She shares her motivations for gaining an MA in Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia).
Hi Claire!
Can you begin by telling us a bit about your educational and professional background?
I graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Hons) with QTS from Homerton College, Cambridge and went straight into a Key Stage 2 teaching job. From there I went to work for the county as a primary maths advisor before spending a couple of years as a part-time intervention teacher whilst also working as a self-employed maths consultant. Four years ago I returned to school full-time and I'm now a SENDCo for an independent prep school.
What are your motivations for pursuing a graduate-level qualification?
I have always been interested in further study but chose this course specifically so I could focus on dyslexia in order to develop my own knowledge so I could support the pupils in our school.
Why did you choose UCL?
I selected UCL due to the course that was on offer and I felt it would offer me the academic rigour I wanted.
What is the best thing about your course?
The tutors have been amazing and very supportive. I have particularly enjoyed its strong grounding in theory and looking at how the theory can be applied to real life contexts.
Do you think it has been a good investment?
Yes - I have developed my skills and have already been able to apply them in school. This will be a huge benefit as we no longer have to refer to an educational psychologist for dyslexia assessments, reducing the waiting time and cost.
What do you find interesting about your field of study and what inspires you?
I find the theory very interesting and how research continues to inform practice. I am inspired by the children in my school and by wanting to learn more to support them. I am also inspired by the depth of knowledge and dedication of the course tutors.
Is there anything else you'd like to add about your experience at IOE?
I have gained a really close supportive network of lifelong friends through the course all of whom have a shared interest in dyslexia and supporting children in literacy.
"I have developed my skills and have already been able to apply them in school."
More information about the Specific Learning Difficulties (dyslexia) MA
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Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia) MA: an overview
