Ruth

QUESTION 1.1

Factors to be considered for indoor environments include:
Space – is there enough space or room for the pupils to achieve what they should, does furniture need moving if perhaps the class were having circle-time
Accessibility – if a pupil is in a wheelchair they need to have as much access to the classroom facilities as others. Furniture and resources may need to be moved.
Light – may need to be adjusted accordingly if a child or young person is visually impaired
Sound – some pupils may be sensitive to sound, for example, a child on the autistic spectrum. It may not always be possible for noises to be avoided however as a learning support practitioner we need to be aware of the effect they can have on pupils

Whilst outdoors we would need to consider:
Space – is there enough space or room for the pupils to achieve what they should, if the playground in the reception area was too small for the use of equipment (the parachute for example) then we would need to move to the main playground
Weather – does the weather permit us to carry out an activity, the playground may not be open if it was too icy or if it was covered with snow
Security – is the outdoor environment safe, could pupils wander off, are there enough adults supervising the pupils, it the area safe for the activity
Appropriate clothing – the pupils may need different clothing for an activity, wellies if they are gardening or sunhats when outside in summer
Cleanliness – is the area clean, is it free of litter and animal excreta

All equipment, resources and materials must be used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and the guidelines stated in the school’s Health and Safety policy. We need to be familiar with this policy and assist the teacher in making sure it is implemented at all times. In addition, when supporting pupils in the use of materials, resources and equipment we should:

1, ensure the learning environment is safe and free of hazards during...