Help_Improve_Own_and_Team_Practice_in_Schools

Harpreet Matharu Unit 206 - Help improve own and team practice in schools As a TA, it is very important to continue professional development because it does not only give me more hands-on experience but also an awareness of the ever changing policies, which gives me a better chance of supporting the team leader. Also to contribute as an individual, but also support the working team as a whole. On a personal note for continuing professional development would have to be to promote self-confidence and broaden the knowledge gained to better my skills and update myself on what’s changing around me. For example, recently the reception class had been refurbished and the class had to be re-organised, tables had to be set, files sorted, cupboards de-cluttered, etc. This was only achieved by all members working together as a unit and the many ideas that came together, that worked out in the end. This course has involved a role of observing other members of staff doing things that are new, receiving instructions from other members of staff on new things I have to do, having the opportunity to practice new skills, reading play work theory and researching relevant research. I also want to continue on with level 3 next year as ongoing process to support my individual professional development. Understand the work of the team Making a school successful takes more than individual effort, it takes teamwork. Individuals need to work together towards shared goals and commitments focusing on meeting the academic and social needs of all pupils in the school. Whilst it is important to know and succeed in your own role within the school it is also beneficial to have knowledge of others roles within your team and how you all can work effectively together. It is also crucial for the team to have regular meetings to enable the staff to implement new ideas or plans, solve problems, discuss, prioritise and accomplish important tasks, which in all will benefit the pupil’s education and school experience. Characteristics of an effective team: • Lack of selfishness • a sense of common purpose • Shared Responsibility • Participation, Regular and open communication • Unity • Respect and trust • Commitment to the aim The relationship developed with colleagues and other staff which helps the team to work well and having shared roles, to provide a high level of service to children and young people. It is also important for the team to have a clear purpose and objectives. This includes getting along well with colleagues, being fair to them, avoiding unnecessary disagreements and not letting your personal life influence the way you relate to colleagues. Also if you work with an individual child you may also work alongside others such as SENCO or external professionals, who may come into the school such as the following, • Education welfare officer • Physiotherapist • Occupational therapists • Educational psychologist • Speech and language therapist • Specialist teachers Within a primary school the purpose of thee assistant is to work with the class teacher and in many cases with other adults and assistants who may work together. To provide general support within the class or a specific department, as an assistant it is important to work with the class teacher’s learning intentions. For example in the class there is a TA and I supported her too to plan and support the class activities, while the class teacher was preparing for her PPA meeting. It is important for all members of staff to understand their role and how it inter-links with other members of that team. Also communicating effectively with others is another important part of working well within the team. Where the methods of communication should be clear and consistent, so that all members of the team get to voice their opinions and feel their opinions are appreciated. These opinions can be expressed in the daily meetings held for all members of staff and this gives a clear indication of how what you are doing fits into the school or team as a whole. It is essential to remember that all members are equally important and that each member has their own distinctive area of expertise, which should be respected as each individual has their own opinion and knowledge to bring to the team as a whole. This will enable a good working relationship and show that you consider their opinions and expertise. As any sort of unbalance in the team can results in bad feelings or even resentment, this can quickly cause problems and unhinge the team from working towards the target objectives. In my role I find others coming to me for advice, sometimes work or of a personal matter. By being considerate of their feelings and that member can confide in me, I also have to remain supportive within my professional role and if I do not feel that is appropriate to deal with a particular issue, then I can refer it to another team member. Also it is vital to be non-judgmental about the other members of staff from my team and to not allow my own opinions to intrude or obscure any of my decisions.