My vision for education is one in which all differences are included and welcomed; education is flexible, relevant and leads towards positive social change.

The way I currently serve this vision is by teaching, speaking, writing and educating about how to support students with Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties.

I teach these students in a variety of educational settings. I also train others to do so – in schools, universities and conferences, as well as advising senior leaders and policy makers on whole school approaches to supporting these students.

I make education work for students who believe themselves to be hopeless, disengaged and at worst, not clever enough. I adapt the learning to support the student’s journey, I do not expect my students to fit into a fixed system – unless they have contributed to it in the first place.

I have taught for 17 years: in mainstream secondary schools, Pupil Referral Units, Alternative Educational Provision and SEND schools. I mentor teachers and trainees and am a Visiting Lecturer at the University of Brighton. I have a Masters Degree and PGCE in Secondary Education.

My ultimate goal now is to create an alternative education organisation for teenage pupils who have been excluded from mainstream schools. If this inspires you or you would like to get involved, I would love to hear from you.

Enjoy,

Adele Bates