Trainee teachers gain insight into additional learning needs at specialist college

PGCE students took part in a range of professional learning activities designed to deepen their understanding of inclusive education. 

As part of their professional development and preparation for an additional learning needs unit, trainee teachers at Coleg Sir Gâr have visited a specialist college for young people with additional learning needs (ALN).

Members of the group are either studying a PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) or a PCET (Professional Certificate in Education and Training) at Coleg Sir Gâr’s Pibwrlwyd campus.

With their tutors, they took a trip to Coleg Elidyr, a college in Llandovery that exclusively supports ALN learners where each student has a therapeutic programme tailored to their needs.

PGCE students took part in a range of professional learning activities designed to deepen their understanding of inclusive education. 

Students who are in their first year of training, were invited to observe sessions across the college including animal care, horticulture, kitchen skills, craft and ICT and were shown the impact of speech, language and occupational therapy. 

Nina Theodoulou-Evans, PGCE course lead for year one, said: “Staff at Coleg Elidyr shared their expertise generously, offering detailed explanations of their approaches to differentiation, communication, and support. Our learners commented on how welcoming and well-organised the college environment was, and how every aspect of daily life there is designed to promote independence, dignity, and personal growth.

“One of the highlights of the visit was observing teaching and learning in action. Seeing the individualised support, adapted resources, and emphasis on life skills helped the PGCE students make clear links between theory and practice.  

“It was also wonderful to see one of our very own PCET graduates, Val Morse, now teaching at Coleg Elidyr, applying the knowledge and skills developed during their studies to make a real difference in the lives of their learners.”

 By the end of the visit, the group left with a richer understanding of what effective ALN provision looks like in practice. 

Nina Theodoulou-Evans added: “The PGCE team would like to thank the staff and learners at Coleg Elidyr for their warm hospitality and for providing such an inspiring professional learning experience.”