Working together is the best school of thought

By Jennifer Grant, Noah's Ark Speech Pathologist

It’s the sharing of knowledge between teachers and therapists that Mollie Leetham says worked wonders when she went back to school.

The Noah’s Ark Occupational Therapist believes this is a key ingredient for significant and lasting positive outcomes for children, families and educators.

“Research and experience tell us that working in partnership helps achieve positive outcomes,” Mollie says.

“We know that children learn best through regular interactions with familiar people and environments, and recognise that both educators and allied health professionals play a unique role in this space.”

Mollie, who is completing extensive work within schools, says that educators and teachers are uniquely placed to have a wealth of knowledge about their pupils, due to the amount of time they spend with them in schools and preschools.

“Allied health professionals possess information about child development, and knowledge and skills related to evidence-based practices, including how to build upon a child’s existing routines to support growth and goal attainment,” she says.

“Educators and allied health professionals working in collaboration allows for expertise to be shared.”

“It also supports problem-solving, enhances creativity and can increase efficiency. Working together allows us to broaden our collective skillset and is key in achieving outcomes.”

But what can these partnerships look like and how can they function seamlessly when teachers are so busy during their school day?

“Partnerships work best when they are established based on shared understanding and a common purpose,” Mollie says.

“As such, they are not ‘one-size-fits-all' and determining the aim of the partnership is usually the best first step in working together.”

Some examples of Noah’s Ark's work with education settings includes training and consultancy. Mollie says the organisation can:

• Provide training sessions for staff;
• Support student inclusion and participation (including funding application processes);
• Assist with the implementation of adjustments at an individual, classroom or whole-school level; and
• Plan and run targeted intervention in individual or group settings.

“By partnering with schools and education settings directly, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the ways educators consistently show up for their students, working tirelessly to create environments conducive to learning and enjoyment, and, I’ve been able to become a part of that!" Mollie says.

"I’ve discovered the importance of tapping into existing qualities and structures whilst working with staff to enhance them, so that they can be confident in their ability to provide an environment where children feel welcomed, valued and supported to fully participate.”

For further information about how Noah’s Ark Professionals can support your school, or to register interest, visit our School & Student Supports page.