Gianna Knowles is Principle Lecturer and Head of Partnership (Initial Teacher Education) at London South Bank University . She has also worked with teacher trainee students from across Europe at the University of Jönköping in Sweden. Before working in Higher Education Gianna gained over 12 years experience of teaching in primary schools in England, in London and the Midlands. She has worked in Local Authority Advisory services, working with individual teachers and whole-schools staffs to develop school wide practice and policy. Gianna has experience of being an OfSTED Inspector and reviewer for the Quality Assurance Agency. Her research interest is in the area of social justice, inclusion and diversity.
Most classrooms contain children from a variety of backgrounds, where home culture, religious beliefs and the family's economic situation all impact on achievement. This needs to be recognized by teachers in order to establish fair, respectful, trusting and constructive relationships with children and their families, which will allow every child to reach their full potential. This book looks at real issues that affect teachers in the classroom, and examines a variety of influences affecting child development. It provides you with the theoretical and practical information you need to ensure you understand the complex factors which affect the children in your care, and it encourages good, thoughtful teaching. Dealing with some of the less widely addressed aspects of diversity and inclusion, the book considers:Children who are asylum seekersThe notion of 'pupil voice'What diversity and equality mean in practiceGender and achievementLooked-after childrenSocial classDisabilityEthnicity and whitenessThis book is essential reading for any education student looking at diversity and inclusion, and for teachers in role looking for advice on how to meet the professional standards.
