Pupil Inclusion Network Thursday 12 th November 2015 Moira Leslie RCET Education Manager

Aims of this Session During this session you will have the opportunity to:- Have a brief overview of the RCET Education Programme. Hear some of the key messages from the film ‘Forces Kids - This is My Life’. Consider what Inclusion means to youngsters from Armed Forces Families. Consider some of the barriers to Inclusion.

RCET Education Programme Resources Training/Presentations Research Partnerships

What do we mean by Inclusion? Inclusion means taking positive action and intervening in order to enable achievement for all by building and fulfilling the potential of every child, young person and adult. HGIOS 4

Forces Kids – This is My Life

What are they thinking /feeling? Running Time 19 minutes

Some Key Messages from the Film The youngsters want their voices to be heard. They want to be listened to by people who know how to respond appropriately. They want to be the same as others but at the same time have their unique challenges recognised. They accept that they are different in some ways but don’t want to be made to feel different.

Possible Barriers to Inclusion Frequent moves of school. At times academic achievement may not the highest priority. At times getting to school may not be the highest priority. At times taking on a Young Carers role may be expected of them.

School Inclusion A sense of belonging Feeling respected Valued for who you are

What do schools need to do? Have robust transition “practices” in place. Be aware of possible challenges faced by youngsters from Armed Forces Families and how to support them. Work in an Emotionally Literate way. Be flexible.

Keeping in touch Moira Leslie