09 Oct 2011
As you are all aware I have been overseas for the past seven weeks visiting a number of special schools across the United Kingdom and travelling in Europe. During my time away I visited five schools in the UK. Each of the schools were quite unique and I gained a lot of insight into some different methods these schools employ to work with students with disabilities. I learnt a lot about the assessment scale used across the UK with special needs students. I also investigated various communication systems that the schools have set up to improve their student's ability to relate within the classroom and across other settings. Technology was a focus area for my visit and I learnt a lot about the use of Interactive White Boards with special needs students. I found this experience to be wonderful and I am certain I bring back many new skills to share with the staff of Gralee and ultimately enrich the quality of education we have to offer.
Following my school visits, my husband and I visited with my family in England, we travelled to Edinburgh, Scotland which is where I was born. We then visited Europe for three weeks, completing the tour with a visit to Southern Italy to visit my husbands family. My favourite destination was Venice, I always loved Venice long before I ever visited for the first time eight years ago. It is enriched with such a unique culture and history.
I am excited to be back at Gralee, we have so many amazing things taking place over the next six months I am very excited to be a part of it all.
Fiona Wylie, Principal