Sitting on both sides of the fence
Author: Kirstie Page
Magazine issue: Winter 08
Page numbers: 10-12
Date: 30 November 2008
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Kirstie Page started out as a speech and language therapist. As she became increasingly aware of the impact of children’s speech and language skills on their learning - and of potential modifications in the educational environment which could help - she decided to train as a teacher. While her background in speech and language therapy was an asset, the level of preparation and organisation that is required of teachers was particularly demanding and the differences in the two professions were greater than she anticipated. Kirstie considers the pressures on each ‘side of the fence’ and practical ways that speech and language therapists can work more effectively with teachers. She is now using her dual training as a consultant with StoryPhones, a new digital audio system to promote literacy, language and literacy skills in the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1.
