Within Issue 112
The theme for this Winter 2025 issue is ‘communication’. However, we begin with tributes to two hugely influential pioneers in the field of sensory education – Richard Hirstwood and Flo Longhorn – who both died this year. Their respective impacts on our understanding of the senses and the development of appropriate teaching strategies, approaches and resources have been immense, and they are rightly celebrated. In recognition of their achievements, the Spring 2026 issue of the PMLD LINK journal (available after Easter) will have the theme of ‘sensory engagement’ and we would be especially pleased to hear from people who worked and learned with and were inspired by Richard and Flo.
Back to this current Winter issue – our first article is from a parent about the importance of communication and what it involves. This is followed by an article from a sibling who talks about the overwhelming feelings siblings can experience and the need to help them communicate these naturally and comfortably. These are followed by three articles that talk about strategies for enhancing communication between people with profound and multiple learning disabilities and their communication partners and ways of meeting their needs and aspirations.
We asked for contributions about the use of relevant communication aids, including assistive technology, both hi-tech and low-tech aids, and interactive approaches, and our authors did not disappoint us. There are articles here about the communicative power of objects of reference, a student-led approach to timetabling of activities, using eye gaze technology, using 3-D printed tactile tiles for communication, a teacher’s guide for responsive, inclusive, and relational communication, and strategies for enhancing communication and inclusion for learners with sensory impairments.
As regards assessment strategies, we have a very helpful summary of a report on research into how schools best show evidence of learner progress using the Welsh Routes for Learning assessment tool. We also have a paper from a research team who are aiming to gradually increase and deepen the level of participation in research of people with profound and multiple learning disabilities to lay the foundations for developing their role as co-researchers in a collaborative team. In a sobering article, another research team present their findings from a survey of family and carers of people with profound and multiple learning disabilities that highlights their experiences of living through the COVID-19 Pandemic and continuing impacts.
Finally, we have several articles which celebrate the development of communication and relationships through different activities: a music and movement-based programme to enable a dynamic movement experience and sensory awakening; the Special Olympics motor activity training programme; the development of an accessible and inclusive playground for children and adults; a weekly multi-media live music and dance improvisation by people with profound and multiple learning disabilities and a team of interdisciplinary artists; and the development of free resources and training for schools by the Royal Ballet and Opera Schools team.
As usual, there are several pages of news items and information about resources.
Many thanks to all our contributors for supporting PMLD LINK. This journal could not exist without your enthusiasm and willing support.
The Editors would like to send everyone best wishes for the coming festive season and 2026.
The editors are Rob Ashdown, Maureen Phillip, Sue Thurman, Clare Chalaye and Peter Navarra.
