Hi I don't know if this is of any help to you now, but I wrote this...
1.2 It is important to support participation and equality of access so that all children and young people have the same opportunities offered to them regardless of their personal background. Within a school equality, diversity and inclusion are very important. All pupils have the right to a broad and balanced curriculum and equality to access ensures these rights are met by giving all children the right access to the curriculum regardless of their background, race, culture, gender, additional need or disability. It is important that they are supported and have the right to participate and be treated equal so that they can work and achieve to the best of their ability.
Inclusion "is the process of identifying, understanding and breaking down barriers to participation and belonging" (Sue Griffin 2008, p17) It is about ensuring all children and young people have access to equal learning opportunities whatever their disadvantages and ensuring that relevant support systems are in place and available to those who need it. Such as providing sign materials in braille, suitable access in and around school for children who require wheelchairs / walking aids etc.
For example; In the year group I am currently working within, a child requires the use of a wheelchair, during gardening activities rather than excluding the child, staff ensure there is suitable wheelchair access down to the gardens along with providing an adapted area suitable for the child to be able to participate fully in the activities offered with her peers. There are also times within the classroom during certain activities where provisions are made in order for the child to participate, the use of a table top aid for example ensures the child can do everyday classroom activities without having to be excluded.
Participation involves everyone within the school, including parents. This involves the inclusion of children, who all have the right to express their views and for these to be respected by adults when making decisions on matters that affect them. Participation is involving the children with the planning, delivery and evaluation of the curriculum on a daily basis, it includes asking children what they think, what works or what they think could be improved. It is about listening and respected children's views and opinions. Effective participation gives children and young people the opportunity to make a positive contribution to their learning, build relationships and to develop skills and confidence they will need for the future.
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