Supplementary memorandum submitted by
Focus Learning Trust
1. In the oral evidence session on 11 January,
you asked witnesses to keep in touch, hence this note, which also
supplements our written submission of 3 October 2005.
2. On 11 January, the Committee expressed
interest in Lucid computer SEN screening tests, developed at Hull
University. Unfortunately, there was no time to discuss the crucial
question:
— how could Lucid results be used?
3. Focus uses them:
— to help teachers prepare IEPs;
and
— as one step in trying to identify
the underlying causes of a learning difficulty.
4. The next step is to observe the pupil
carry out some simple physical exercises.
5. We also ask the pupil's mother to complete
the questionnaire shown in Appendix 1. (Contents largely courtesy
of INPP, Chester).
6. Surprising though it may seem, every
question has a bearing on learning difficulties. SpLD can often
be traced to problems during pregnancy, the birth process itself
and infancy.
7. Focus may recommend referral to:
— a doctor, if there is any suggestion
of an undetected medical condition;
— a behavioural optometrist;
— a practitioner in exercises
for retained birth reflexes and bilateral integration; and
8. Focus may suggest:
— taking a dietary supplement
such as EyeQ;
— auditory therapy via The Listening
Program (TLP).
9. We find there is often an appreciable
alleviation of SEN, for relatively little cost. Not all educationalists
are acquainted with SEN therapies, although teachers are usually
quite impressed with the results. Some examples are shown in Appendix
2.
10. These therapies complement, rather than
replace the work of SENCOs and teachers. A word of caution—not
every therapy works as advertised, so great care must be taken
when selecting them.
SUGGESTION
11. The Committee may feel that these therapies
are worth further consideration. If so, Focus would be glad to
attend an informal meeting with Members to explain more fully
the way we work, and discuss how SEN therapies might be used more
widely.
March 2006
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