Following this weeks class on disability, in relation to inclusion and equality. I feel I now have a wider understanding of the subject, that can sometimes be seen as a taboo topic.

One of the most interesting points I took away from the lecture; that I feel will stay with me as I pursue a career in teaching, is the difference between the Equality Act(2010)  and the Additional Support for Learning Act (ASL) (2004/9).  I learnt that the Equality Act was put in place to protect those that have a mental or physical impairment that has an adverse, long- term effect that averts them from carrying out everyday activities. However, this is a very wishy-washy  statement and so each individual case can be different when deciding whether someone is deemed ‘disabled’ or not.  Whereas, on the other hand the ASL act is a legal framework that provides and supports a framework for those in their school years and their families. This act not only covers those with a physical or mental disability but also expands wider to protect and cover other children that may require support in the classroom.

Reflecting back on this lecture I now have a clear understand that disability and additional support needs are different matters and as a result this is why both act exist.

During the follow up tasks that followed the lecture I appreciated the task where we were given different scenarios and had to discuss with our peers if and how they child was being discriminated against and what should have been done to prevent this. I found this very insightful as I got to hear how others would respond to the situations. I also now understand that I will probably -as a teacher- have a child that is classed as disabled in my class at some point and although this may be way in the future, I will remember what I have learnt today and always strive to include every single child in my class in every activity I plan.