Case Study: Communication Champion Training

Supporting pre-school practitioners in Norfolk with evidence-based training on speech, language and communication needs (SLCN).

Overview

Following a successful number of years providing the Communication Champion Training in collaboration with the Communication Trust, COMMUNICATE has continued to provide both the 6 week ‘Core’ and ‘Advanced’ training that is available to all pre-school practitioners in Norfolk. This has included a full update of the sessions in the past year to ensure that training meets the needs of learners and takes into consideration the ever-changing evidence base for supporting young children with Speech, Language and Communication Needs.

Audience

Pre-School Practitioners

Duration

Six x 1.5 hour sessions per training type. These run on a half termly basis throughout the year,

Learning Objectives – Core Training

To understanding what SLCN is, and the terminology used for different elements. To be able to understand how these are represented across some key models.
To be aware of the causes and prevalence of SLCN, with specific focus on DLD.
To be able to identify children who may have SLCN and need further support.
To appreciate the importance of vocabulary as a cornerstone of SLC development from early emerging language onwards.
To feel confident in adapting the setting environment, and the way adults interact with children, to support SLC development.
To have practical strategies and activities to encourage communication within the setting and personalise these to individual children.

Learning Objectives – Advanced Training

To build on CORE knowledge:

To have a greater understanding of specific SLCN areas.
To increase knowledge in assessing these areas.
To have specific strategies and activities to develop skills in the specific areas.
To consider children both in a medical ‘deficit’ model, as well as a functional ‘social’ model when setting targets.
To demonstrate an ability to integrate all the teaching and apply this to case studies.

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