Language development

A deputy principal observes an early career teacher in her language development class. The observation is designed to evaluate how school-wide strategies are being implemented in individual classrooms. Following the observation, she describes how she formed the program and team after attending a range of professional activities. Finally, the teacher and the deputy principal reflect on the skills and knowledge that the former has developed since graduating as a teacher.

Peel Language Development School opened in February 2002 and was the first purpose built specialist facility for early language intervention in Western Australia. The school places students K–3 who meet the entrance criteria set by the Department of Education. Staff members are specially trained and work collaboratively with school based speech pathologists. Staff participate in on-going professional learning to keep abreast of current research and educational practice.