Personal and Professional Development: Becoming an Inclusive Practitioner

Abstract

This paper explores social justice and inclusion in education from a Scottish perspective. It highlights the teacher's role in creating an inclusive learning environment and identifies implications for learning arising from this. Inclusion is a priority in Scottish education, with the aim for every child to feel valued, safe and respected. The literature shows the positive impact of this upon achievement for both pupils with and without significant learning difficulties. I adapted and reflected upon my own practice in regards to its inclusiveness and impact upon children's learning in order to make learning accessible to every pupil and raise achievement. In conclusion, the positive impact of inclusion on achievement and learning was significant and is something I aspire to in my future practice. However, the implications of inclusion for pupils with significant learning difficulties in mainstream education and the direct impact upon specific achievements remain unresolved.