Sue Ellen Attard is a graduate of the MA in Special and Additional Learning Needs. In this article, Sue Ellen shares her experience on the programme.
Special and additional learning needs are at the heart of my career. I work as a Learning Support Assistant in the state education sector in Malta, supporting learners with diverse needs and advocating for inclusive, evidence-based teaching practices. My academic journey, which includes a Bachelor’s degree in Facilitating Inclusive Education (First Class Honours) and a Master’s in Special and Additional Learning Needs with the University of East London and ICEP Europe, has deepened my knowledge and strengthened my practical skills in supporting students with a range of learning differences.
Why I Chose the Master’s in Special and Additional Learning Needs
I enrolled in the Master’s programme to enhance my understanding of special education and inclusive learning. I was particularly drawn to its focus on autism education, inclusive pedagogy, and strategies for supporting learners with additional needs.
The programme offered key modules such as:
Autism – strategies and interventions for supporting autistic learners
Inclusive Practices – creating learning environments that meet diverse needs
Dyslexia – understanding challenges and practical interventions
Understanding Behaviour – positive approaches to behaviour management
These modules combined theory with practical application, equipping me with tools I could immediately use in the classroom.
Research That Matters: Autism and Education Policy in Malta
One of the highlights of my Master’s journey was conducting research on autism education and national education policies in Malta. This allowed me to explore how policy impacts classroom practice and how evidence-based approaches can improve outcomes for learners with special and additional learning needs.
I was honoured to receive the TESS scholarship, which supported my studies and allowed me to focus on research that could influence inclusive practice in Malta.
Skills That Transformed My Practice
The programme strengthened my professional skills in areas including:
Supporting learners with autism, dyslexia, and behavioural challenges
Critically analysing education policies and their classroom implications
Collaboration, problem-solving and effective communication
Applying evidence-based strategies in real-world classroom settings
These skills have had a direct impact on my role as a Learning Support Assistant. I am now more confident, reflective, and capable of creating inclusive, supportive learning environments.
Why I Recommend This Master’s
For anyone passionate about special education and inclusive practice, I highly recommend this programme. Key benefits include:
Flexibility – Study at your own pace with 1, 2, or 3 modules per year
Comprehensive resources – Access to high-quality academic literature and course materials
Structured support – Clear deadlines and strong academic organisation
Expert tutors – Knowledgeable, approachable, and responsive
Practical relevance – Balanced combination of theory and hands-on application
The programme has not only enhanced my professional skill set but also empowered me to advocate for inclusion more effectively.
Working in the area of special and additional learning needs requires dedication, knowledge, and adaptability. My journey with the University of East London and ICEP Europe has been transformative, giving me the confidence and skills to support learners with diverse needs effectively. This Master’s programme equips practitioners with the tools to make a meaningful impact, and I am excited to continue contributing to inclusive education in Malta.
For international teachers (including the UK, the UAE, Hong Kong, Malta, Switzerland, Luxembourg and worldwide), we are now accepting applications for the next intake of our MA and Special and Additional Learning Needs with the University of East London.