Clare Sheridan

I qualified as a teacher at Manchester Metropolitan University in 1999, with a degree in Primary Education with History and QTS. My first teaching job was in Wythenshawe. I then relocated to Lancaster and taught in Morecambe. After having my children, we moved back to the Manchester area, and I worked in Levenshulme and then Altrincham. My varied career meant that I have experienced a wide variety of contexts and special educational needs, both as a class teacher and then as a Senco. I became the Senco 9 years ago after developing a genuine interest in Special Needs. I completed the Nasenco qualification and then continued my studies with the Level 5 Specialist Dyslexia Teacher course with the British Dyslexia Association.

After working as a specialist teacher for two years, I’ve now gained the Dyslexia Assessors qualification and, as well as being able to diagnose dyslexia, can test for exam access arrangements.

I have also had to navigate through the SEN world as a parent of a neurodiverse child, which has given me an invaluable insight into the pressures and emotions that can be at play.

I also have a diagnosis of ADHD which helps me to relate to pupils and I fully understand the difficulties that can arise.

  • BA hons Primary Education with QTS

  • National Award for SEN coordination

  • ATS (Accredited Teacher Status) for Dyslexia

  • Certificate of Competence in Educational Testing

  • APC (Assessment Practicing Certificate) with Dyslexia Guild

My Experience So Far..

I have successfully obtained many EHCPs for children with a wide range of needs. I’ve also sat on the local authority panel who decide on EHCP assessments. I am experienced in referring children for a wide range of needs, from speech and language, to ADHD and Autism. I have delivered staff training on many topics and trained staff in strategies that support SEN children. I have worked in a diverse, large Primary school, managing a number of staff as well as supporting the whole school delivery of SEN interventions and in class support. I have extensive knowledge of software and interventions that can be used both to manage SEN and support needs in a large school. I have developed a strong well-being and mental health package.

My Vision

I believe that all learners should be given the opportunity to achieve their full potential, whatever that may be. I empower children to embrace their strengths as well as developing strategies to overcome barriers to learning that they may face. Learning should be fun and purposeful, children can always develop skills that reflect this. I have a special interest in all areas of neurodiversity where brains have ways to experience the world, I feel it is key that children can see their strengths and unlock these, learning ways in which they will learn best.