Case Studies – Alexis Beaver

Examples of my work

Sahil, aged 7:

Sahil was a concern at school because of his disruptive behaviour. He had a history of language delay and was not making the progress his parents and teachers were hoping for in English, Maths or Science. Observing Sahil at playtime, and working with him using a range of standardised assessments, I was able to highlight some of Sahil’s strengths and interests as well as provide a detailed account of his areas of difficulty. With a much clearer picture of his unusual developmental profile staff and parents were able to support Sahil in building a more positive approach to school, and ensure more carefully differentiated programmes of work for him.

“We have a much better idea of Sahil’s functioning now, what he finds difficult and why. I think that’s enabled us to be much more patient with him, more tuned in to what he needs and more able to set realistic goals for him.” Senco, Primary School

Tania, aged 14:

Tania felt that she often had good ideas at school, but they never came out as well on paper. She felt under a lot of pressure because she was about to start her GCSE courses. Her parents agreed to an assessment, and were keen to work with the school to support her. After working with Tania over a couple of sessions, I was able to help her understand further her strength with language-based tasks and her difficulties with literacy. I was able to write a report to support her access to extra time in her examinations, and to think with the school about how to enable her to capture her thoughts more effectively, and expand on them more clearly.

“I just thought I was mainly stupid. I feel much calmer and more confident now.” Tania

Josh, aged 9:

Josh’s parents were concerned about what kind of secondary school would suit their son. They wanted to be realistic about his ability but felt the school’s comments were too broad to inform their judgement. They knew he was very quick to pick up ideas but found spelling hard and wondered if there was more they could do. I was able to work with Josh on a number of tasks, so that we could discuss how his range of skills compared with other pupils his age. We also talked about his reading, writing and spelling, and how he could improve these. 12 months on Josh’s spelling is much improved and he and his parents are comfortable with the secondary schools they have applied to.

“Once I could see how I could get better at spelling, it was worth trying harder” Josh

Sarah, aged 6:

Sarah’s parents sometimes found Sarah’s behaviour quite a challenge and her teachers agreed. The school’s Senco suggested involving an Educational Psychologist, and Sarah’s parents were initially quite upset that the school thought she was that much of a problem. However, they thought about it for a while, and then agreed to my involvement. I came in to school to observe Sarah and spend some time with her. I then met with Sarah’s parents and key staff, and discussed with them the types of strategies that might work for her.

“We’ve got a better understanding of Sarah now. And now we’re all pulling together in the same direction we can see how much difference it’s making.” Sarah’s mum

Training Session, Literacy Difficulties:

Maria came to a 3 hour training session about literacy difficulties. She was able to find out about the latest research and thinking in this area, and to explore a range of interventions.

“Alexis spoke clearly and engaged with the audience. She didn’t mind being interrupted if you had a question. The activities were really useful for developing my practice.” Teacher, Primary School

Supporting children and young people with learning, communication or behaviour issues

Parents

I work with children, young people and adults to help understand their learning and behaviour and think about how their needs can best be met. Read more

Professionals

I work with schools and nurseries offering assessments, report writing, coaching, consultation, intervention and training. Read more

My work in action

Read about some examples of my work with children, parents and professionals.