Mainstream teachers will benefit from this one-day workshop by gaining a deeper understanding of the characteristics and learning needs of students who are blind or have low vision. They will also gain a heightened awareness of the important role teachers can play in improving the educational outcomes of students who are blind or have low vision. Suggested practical classroom measures will be augmented by exploration of wider perspectives that include the issues of literacy development, the use of technology and the opportunities for the students’ social inclusion both in and out of class.

As well as gaining knowledge from practitioners and researchers in the field of educating students who are blind or have low vision, participants will be able to engage in questioning, discussion and hands on interaction with a range of resources. Topics will include:

• an introduction to the eye and eye conditions
• an introduction to classroom adjustments for students who are blind or have low vision
• explicit sessions to provide advice and hands on engagement with accessible technology tools
• an introduction to accessible documents and alternate format production
• an introduction and experience with orientation and mobility
• a chance to learn from our past students
• a hands-on, interactive showcase of resources and teaching materials that allows participants to ask questions and engage with all our education and clinical specialists.