Creative uses of video – bringing family and school staff together to problem solve and celebrate

This short article describes a creative, partnership approach to using video to support a deeper understanding and inclusion of Connor (pseudonym), a young person with complex needs, in his primary school and family life. It starts with a description of the origins of the work, how it developed over time, followed by an evaluation of approach used and concludes implications for practice. It is intended to exemplify how similar approaches could be developed.

This article is written by me, Anita, the first author, from my perspective as both an Educational Psychologist and VIG practitioner. The other authors who played key roles; Anna, Headteacher, Helen, Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo), Fleur, Katie and Abbie (Connor’s current and previous teachers), Cassie and Ned (Connor’s parents - pseudonyms), have contributed their ideas through emails and have read and modified all drafts prior to submission. This evaluation was collected by email as chosen by the group as it allowed everyone, particularly Cassie, contribute at a time and place that suited them.