This session will demonstrate how students with special access needs are able to access learning through Crick products. The session will show how to set up accessible reading, writing and assessment activities, and how to build in differentiation for students of varying abilities. The accessibility settings in all three products will be explained, including switch access and low vision settings. John and Ann will also explore ways of approaching layout design when creating activities to ensure optimum levels of accessibility.

John and Ann Crick are both former teachers with extensive experience of teaching children with a wide range of special needs. Professionally they complement each other with their strong interests in technology and literacy, to head Crick Software in its provision of reading and writing tools, assistive technology and curriculum content. In 1993 John established Crick Software, releasing the first version of Clicker the following year, while Ann worked in the classroom incorporating early versions of the software into her teaching. Since then, they have worked together to develop high quality software that is both innovative and practical and makes a real difference to teaching and learning in schools all over the world. John and Ann maintain a strong commitment to the principles of Universal Design for Learning, demonstrated by the widespread use of their software not only in special needs environments, but also in mainstream settings. The company’s products have won many awards, and recently John and Ann were honoured with the Outstanding Achievement Award at the UK’s annual Education Awards.