Supporting Children with Deteriorating Vision and Sudden Sight Loss Course

Course Overview

When a child experiences a sudden loss of vision or is living with deteriorating vision, the impact can be significant for the child, their family and the professionals who support them. Schools are often faced with difficult questions about curriculum access, emotional wellbeing, independence and future learning pathways.

This practical training course equips participants with the knowledge, understanding and strategies needed to effectively support children during this important period of adjustment. The course focuses on ensuring children continue to access learning, develop confidence and independence, and remain fully included within school life.

Designed for QTVIs, specialist teachers, SEND professionals, teaching assistants, school leaders and inclusion teams, this course provides practical guidance for supporting children with deteriorating vision that can be applied immediately.

Understanding Changes in Vision

Participants will explore the various causes of sudden sight loss and deteriorating vision in childhood, together with the potential impact on learning, communication, mobility, wellbeing and social development.

The course also examines how changes in vision can affect:

The child
Parents and carers
School staff
Peers and friendships
Wider support services

Understanding these impacts helps professionals provide appropriate and timely support from the earliest stages.

Immediate Support Strategies

The first few months following a significant change in vision can be particularly challenging.

This section of the course provides practical guidance on the actions that schools, families and support services can take during the initial transition period, including:

Creating a supportive learning environment
Maintaining curriculum access
Supporting emotional wellbeing
Working effectively with families
Planning appropriate adaptations and reasonable adjustments

Participants will leave with practical strategies that can be implemented immediately.

Building Independence Over Time

As a child adjusts to a change in vision, developing independence becomes increasingly important.

The course explores longer-term planning and support strategies, including:

Independent learning skills
Access technologies
Mobility and orientation skills
Social confidence and self-advocacy
Preparing for future transitions

Particular consideration is given to the emotional aspects of developing new skills, including the introduction of Braille, mobility training and other specialist interventions.

Ensuring Curriculum Access

Children experiencing sudden sight loss or deteriorating vision often require immediate support to ensure they remain fully engaged in learning.

Participants will explore practical strategies for:

Adapting learning materials
Providing accessible resources
Supporting classroom participation
Promoting independence within lessons
Ensuring inclusion across the curriculum

The focus is on maintaining high expectations while providing appropriate support.

Emotional Wellbeing and Social Inclusion

Changes in vision can affect a child’s confidence, self-esteem and relationships with others.

This session examines practical approaches for supporting:

Emotional wellbeing
Resilience and confidence
Friendship development
Social inclusion
Positive self-identity

Participants will gain a greater understanding of the emotional journey many children and families experience following vision loss and learn strategies to provide effective support.

Who Is This Course For?

This training is suitable for:

Qualified Teachers of Children with Vision Impairment (QTVIs)
Specialist Teachers
SENDCos
Teaching Assistants
School Leaders
Inclusion Teams
Local Authority Vision Services
Educational Professionals Supporting Children with Vision Impairment

Structure and Delivery

The course adopts a highly practical approach, combining professional knowledge with opportunities for discussion, reflection and case study exploration.

Training can be delivered:

Face to face as a one-day course
Online as three 1.5-hour sessions

Content can also be tailored to meet the specific needs of individual schools, services or local authorities.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course participants will be able to:

Identify the causes and educational impact of sudden sight loss and deteriorating vision.
Understand the emotional, social and educational implications for children and families.
Implement practical strategies that support curriculum access and inclusion.
Develop plans that promote independence, confidence and wellbeing.
Work effectively with families, schools and multidisciplinary teams to support successful adjustment following vision loss.

Supporting Children Through Vision Loss

Supporting children with deteriorating vision requires a coordinated approach involving families, schools and specialist services. As a child’s vision changes, professionals need practical strategies to maintain curriculum access, promote independence and support emotional wellbeing.

What the Professionals Say About Our Training

“I have really enjoyed the day. It has given me lots to think about. I also feel very clear about where to go next. Lots of really positive information. Thank you.”

“Action plans helped with sequential planning for both short- and long-term support. Excellent and well constructed.”

“Really positive day with loads of ideas and useful opportunities to share experiences, as everyone is different. Good to see other perspectives.”

Why Choose Positive Eye

Specialist expertise in vision impairment and inclusive education.
Practical guidance for supporting children experiencing sudden sight loss or deteriorating vision.
Focus on emotional wellbeing, independence and school inclusion.
Real-world strategies that can be implemented immediately.
Training tailored to the needs of your school, service or organisation.
Trusted by schools, local authorities and specialist support services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for teachers, teaching assistants, SENDCOs, QTVIs and professionals supporting children experiencing sudden sight loss or deteriorating vision.

What does the course cover?

The course explores the impact of sudden sight loss, curriculum access, emotional wellbeing, independence skills and practical support strategies for schools and families.

Does the training include support for families?

Yes. The course considers the impact of sight loss on both the child and their family and explores ways professionals can provide effective support.

How can schools support a child immediately after sight loss?

The training includes practical short-term action plans and strategies to help children access learning and remain included during the early stages of adjustment.

Does the course cover emotional wellbeing?

Yes. The course explores strategies to support emotional wellbeing, confidence and social inclusion following sight loss.

Is the training practical?

Yes. Participants receive practical strategies, guidance and opportunities to reflect on real-life situations and professional practice

Related Courses

To Discuss Your Training Requirements

Please email gwyn@positiveeye.co.uk to discuss your specific requirements.

This course can be tailored to the needs of your school, service, local authority or organisation.

Testimonial

“The products are exactly what we need, Gwyn is so approachable. Her materials are suitable for use in schools and we are able to adapt them so they can be used by parents. I would thoroughly recommend Positive Eye courses & resources to anyone“

Testimonial: Positive Eye’s Courses & Resources. Alison – Teacher of Vision Impairment