Speechless children given voice

A resource pack has been produced for teachers working with children who have little or no speech following research carried out in Bristol.

The researchers from Bristol University established relationships with 11 disabled children at schools in the city and in Cheltenham.

They found the children wanted and were capable of being involved in making decisions on school matters.

Another key finding was the need for more training for teaching assistants.

Debby Watson, research fellow at the Norah Fry Research Centre, who helped develop the pack, said: "Our inspiration has been the desire that young people have to communicate, however difficult that is for them, and the joy they find in being heard."

The Participation in Education research project explored approaches for including disabled children, aged 7-11, with little or no verbal communication in decision-making at school.

Researchers held interviews with the children's parents, teachers, head teachers, speech and language therapists and teaching assistants as well as other professionals.

The project concluded given the right support and motivation the children can become successfully involved with school councils and target setting.