In "We Are Not Seeing It: How and Why Mainstream Schools Break SEND Kids," Luisa Gray exposes the systemic failures within UK mainstream schools that harm children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Challenging the common narrative that blames parents, Gray reveals how policies, teaching methods, and disciplinary approaches actively damage SEND children, leading to devastating mental health consequences for both kids and families. This insightful book delves into the "social contract" of schooling, the failings of "Quality First Teaching," and the pervasive issue of parent blame and gaslighting. Gray provides a crucial understanding of SEND law and its frequent disregard, offering a powerful perspective for parents struggling to navigate the education system and offering hope for change.
Review We Are Not Seeing It
"We Are Not Seeing It: How and Why Mainstream Schools Break SEND Kids" by Luisa Gray isn't just a book; it's a lifeline. From the moment I started reading, I felt a wave of validation wash over me. Luisa, writing with the relatable wit and wisdom of a seasoned warrior navigating a brutal battlefield (that battlefield being the UK's SEND system), captures the exhaustion, frustration, and sheer anger that so many SEND parents feel. This isn't a dry, academic text; it's a passionate, personal account infused with both humour and heartbreaking honesty.
The book meticulously details the systemic failings within mainstream schools, dismantling the common excuses and revealing the damaging realities faced by SEND children and their families. Luisa doesn't shy away from the hard truths – the parent-blaming, the gaslighting, the blatant disregard for SEND law – and she does so with a clarity and precision that leaves no room for misunderstanding. She expertly dissects concepts like "Quality First Teaching," showing how it often falls drastically short for children with special needs, and exposes the damaging impact of "command and control" disciplinary methods.
What sets this book apart is its practicality. It's not just about lamenting the problems; it's about empowering parents with knowledge and strategies. Luisa provides clear explanations of SEND law, equipping readers with the tools to understand their rights and advocate effectively for their children. She shares real-life experiences, offering both comfort (you're not alone!) and actionable advice. The inclusion of helpful illustrations adds a touch of levity to the often-heavy subject matter, making the information more accessible and easier to digest.
I found the book's structure incredibly accessible. Even for those, like myself, who may struggle with lengthy reads, the well-organized chapters and engaging style make it a relatively effortless but deeply impactful read. The numerous testimonials interspersed throughout serve as powerful endorsements, echoing the universal experiences of SEND families and confirming the widespread nature of the problems Luisa outlines.
This book resonated deeply with me not only as a parent but also as someone invested in educational reform. It's a vital read for anyone involved in the education system – teachers, SENCOs, and policymakers alike. It offers a crucial opportunity for introspection and a challenge to re-evaluate current practices. Even if you don't have a child with SEND, the insights offered into the systemic issues within mainstream education are invaluable and raise important questions about inclusivity and equity for all children.
In short, "We Are Not Seeing It" is a must-read for every parent, educator, and anyone who cares about ensuring fair and equitable access to education for all children. It's a book that will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and above all, less alone in your fight for justice for our children. Luisa Gray has written a powerful, important, and ultimately, hopeful book. It confirms the validity of experiences many have kept silent, and offers a pathway towards a better, more inclusive future for children with special educational needs.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.56 x 8.5 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 245
- Publication date: 2024
Preview Book
