The SENDcast (Dale Pickles)
Explorez tous les épisodes de The SENDcast
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26 Sep 2024 | Why Movement Matters with Chloe Plummer | 00:47:34 | |
Many of us take everyday tasks for granted, like standing up from a chair. However, for individuals with physical disabilities and complex needs, this simple act can be a significant challenge that not everyone can accomplish independently…yet. This week, we delve into the crucial role of functional movement in the lives of children with physical disabilities and complex needs. Our guest, Chloe Plummer from MOVE Europe, discusses ‘Why movement matters- the importance of providing functional Movement Opportunities Via Education’. She tells us how their innovative programme empowers children by developing essential skills such as sitting, standing, and walking. Chloe shares her personal experiences and insights on how tailored movement education can ensure individuals with physical disabilities are able to live fulfilling and independent lives. “With those motivations and the right attitude and approach, they can achieve some amazing things”. Chloe Plummer During our discussion Chloe covers:
Listen to gain valuable perspectives on promoting independence through movement.
About Chloe PlummerMOVE Europe are a small charity working with over 160 special schools in the UK, enabling children with physical disabilities and complex needs to gain independent movement skills through the MOVE Programme. Our vision is for every disabled young person to have choice and opportunities by learning independent movement. We work towards this by training education and therapy professionals in the MOVE Programme and providing ongoing support so that they can achieve the best outcomes possible for the disabled young people they support. Chloe Plummer is the Events and Programme Coordinator (South) at MOVE Europe and is responsible for supporting both new and existing schools in the South of the country on their MOVE journey. Chloe has a background working with various disability organisations both locally and nationally over the last 8 years. As a result of her own lived experience of physical disability Chloe has a real passion for improving outcomes for all disabled people and also has first hand experience of the importance of providing movement opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities ensuring they are able to live fulfilled and independent lives. Chloe combines her experience and passion in her role at MOVE and is excited to be speaking on the SEND Cast!
Contact Chloe
Useful Links
Vote for B Squared at the Education Today Awards: https://educationtodayawards.co.uk/vote/
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 04 Jun 2020 | The Language and Literacy Link with Wendy Lee | 00:49:10 | |
In this week’s podcast Dale Pickles from B Squared is joined by Wendy Lee to discuss the language and literacy link, the impact a pupil’s language difficulties has on their literacy. Wendy is a speech and language therapist for over 30 years, with a wealth of experience. Wendy was a professional director of the Communications Trust until 2015, being involved in a range of projects as well as inputting on national policy and research. Wendy is currently the director of LINGO which provides consultancy, professional development, resources and speech and language therapy. The Language and Literacy link is the link between a pupil’s language difficulties and their literacy difficulties. It seems obvious when you think about it, if a pupils struggles with speaking an listening, they will probably be lacking skills when it comes to reading and writing. Many children with SEN have poor spoken language skills. It is estimated that at least 10% of all children have some difficulties with speech, language and communication, will have SLCN; this may be a primary need, as with Developmental Language Disorder or it may be a Language Disorder linked to another condition, such as cognition and learning or autism. Limited language impacts on literacy. Sometimes, it is language that is the foundation of literacy difficulties, though rarely is this the focus of literacy teaching or support. The podcast will explore how a focus on language could support those children with limited literacy skills.
Useful LinksWho are poor comprehenders? - https://readoxford.org/who-are-poor-comprehenders Improving literacy in key stage 1 - https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/tools/guidance-reports/literacy-ks-1/ Improving literacy in key stage 2 - https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/tools/guidance-reports/literacy-ks-2/ IPEELL: Using self-regulation to improve writing https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/projects-and-evaluation/projects/ipeell/ Westerveld and Gillon Oral Narrative Program 2007 - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275017556_Westerveld-and-Gillon-Oral-Narrative-Program-2007 Lingo - www.lingospeech.co.uk How to contact Wendy LeeTwitter - @Lingo_speech Email - wendy@lingospeech.co.uk | |||
| 10 Jun 2021 | Changing the Ds in ADHD with Fintan O'Regan | 00:50:23 | |
Dale's guest is Fintan O’Regan, Fintan is a trainer and consultant for schools and school support systems including, Social Services, Health, the Police and Foster carers. He has worked with a number of organisations including NASEN, Institute of Education, Leicester University, the UK ADHD Network and the European ADHD Alliance. And before this he was a headteacher of a specialist school for students with ADHD, ASD and ODD. Fintan is a regular here in our studios, he has recorded a number of episodes of the SENDcast, he is a regular speaker at our Virtual SEND Conferences and has recorded a training course for us around Exclusion. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and would therefore be seen by most people as being a challenge and not an opportunity. Indeed some years ago Dale heard a parent describe to another parent that ADD stood for Attention Devastation Disorder such was the impact on her life. Language is important and as a result we suggest reframing the term ADHD in a more positive and accurate way. In addition we discuss both the history and future of the term and outline a range of strategies and suggestions to support individuals with ADHD at school and at home.
O’Regan F (2018) Successfully Managing Children ADHD Second edition :Routledge Falmer Press O’Regan F (2020) Supporting behaviour in the classroom: Sage publications limited https://www.amazon.co.uk/Little-Guide-Teachers-Supporting-Behaviour/dp/1529718554 Cave S and O’Regan (2021) Attention difficulties: How to help: Pavillion books group: O’Regan F (2020) 100 top tips for Supporting Parents with Children with ADHD O’Regan F (2018) Supporting children with ADHD: Learning Behaviour The Defiant Child: Douglas Riley | |||
| 21 Jan 2021 | Autism Different Presentations with Lana Grant | 00:58:08 | |
Joining Dale today is Lana Grant. Lana has a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome and is also a parent of children on the autism spectrum Lana is a specialist SEN advisor and an advocate for SEN children and their families. Lana’s first book "From Here To Maternity, pregnancy and motherhood on the Autism Spectrum" was published in 2015. Lana also contributes to various articles, podcasts and delivers talks at various shows and events. She definitely outranks Dale when it comes to discussing autism. There have been a number of portrayals of autism in films and TV series. They portray a simplistic view of autism. They are socially awkward, or struggle to socialise, but amazing at maths or recognising patterns. For a lot of the population, this is how they see autism. But this is not how all people with autism present. | |||
| 01 Apr 2025 | nasen awards - Jane Fearnley & Faye Ebbs, Alternative Provision of the Year | 00:36:39 | |
Jane Fearnley and Faye Ebbs from the LEAF Centre, discuss their work and recent recognition as winners of the nasen Alternative Provision of the Year award. The Leaf Centre, located within Willow Tree Academy, focuses on providing therapeutic intervention support to improve student attendance, reduce exclusions, and foster early intervention, leading to academic progress. Over the past two years, their initiative has resulted in a 7% increase in attendance rates, despite the initial low attainment of students. They highlight the importance of collaboration among the staff, parents, and local authorities to create an environment that meets the needs of children with social, emotional, and mental health challenges. Jane and Faye outline their approach, which involves stepping students out of traditional schooling for intensive support before reintegrating them. They believe in the value of early intervention and a support network to prevent students from requiring Educational Health Care Plans (EHCPs). The discussion highlights the role of teachers observing students in the LEAF Centre, gaining insights that change their perceptions and ability to support these children effectively. They also aim to provide Continual Professional Development (CPD) to schools to equip staff in handling challenging behaviours. The episode showcases the pivotal role of the LEAF Centre in transforming educational experiences for students facing difficulties, validating their potential, and promoting a supportive community atmosphere among families and educational institutions.
About Jane FearnleyJane Fearnley is CEO of the Willow Tree Academy, a four school multi-academy trust in Rotherham. 90% of pupils in the academy live in some of the most deprived areas in England and in Europe. Jane’s career in education has spanned 37 years, twenty of these as Head Teacher of Herringthorpe Junior School and in the last ten years as Executive Head and CEO of Willow Tree Academy. As a National Leader of Education, Jane has supported many schools in challenging circumstances to improve, offering her commitment as a system leader to the wider education sector. Jane's area of expertise and passion is working with disadvantaged children and those with SEND, and in developing behaviours for learning and systems which ensure children have the profound primary learning experience they deserve. She was honoured to receive an OBE for her services to education in the Queen’s Jubilee Honours 2022. Jane is committed to creativity in teaching and coaching staff to have high expectations of what all children can achieve. The curriculum across the academy is vibrant, exciting and cross - curricular; a child - centred approach based on learning through first - hand experience and the Arts. Awe and wonder are key drivers for the Academy’s provision, alongside developing pupil's social, moral, spiritual and cultural capital. Jane’s response to the escalating need for SEMH provision was to embark on a challenging journey that eventually saw the opening of the LEAF Centre - a specialist step-out SEMH provision. Jane sees the recognition within the nasen award as validating and supporting the drive to ensure children who have endured specific trauma, adverse childhood experiences, bereavement, emotionally based school non-attendance or other diagnosed or undiagnosed difficulties are supported and nurtured to succeed. The philosophy always being that LEAF children return to their mainstream school to enjoy their learning with their peers within their community.
About Faye EbbsI have been a qualified teacher for over 10 years and a SENCO / Inclusion leader for 6 of these. My role has taken more of a strategic direction over the last 2-3 years as I supported the inception of our therapeutic step out provision, the LEAF centre, and continue to support staff within our academy and beyond in supporting pupils with SEND needs. My main passion is to give pupils the skills and strategies to enable them to be successful, now and in their future, regardless of their starting point or perceived ‘disadvantages. SEMH in particular is a point of interest and from this drives much of the work and support we offer at the LEAF centre, which is premised on using therapeutic support and emotional regulation strategies alongside a teacher led curriculum offer, to unpick barriers and devote time into changing the trajectory for individuals in our care. The LEAF Centre is considered a specialist SEMH step out provision due to the nature of the programme running for 12 weeks for individuals with specific SEMH needs. These may be attributed to a specific trauma, adverse childhood experiences, bereavement, school based non attendance or other diagnosed or undiagnosed difficulties. Within the local authority, the LEAF centre is the only provision offering this step out support, enabling children to engage in a different environment before reintegrating back into school, with planned outreach support.
Contact Jane & Fayehttps://www.willowtreeacademy.org/ Faye.ebbs@willowtreeacademy.org
About the nasen awardsThe nasen awards celebrate outstanding contributions to the education and support of children and young people with SEND. These annual awards recognise individuals, schools, and organisations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive education and the advancement of SEND practices. nasen is a charitable organisation that supports children and young people with SEND. nasen's goals include Influencing government policy, providing information, training and resources to support practitioners and contributing to the debate and effecting change to improve outcomes for children and young people.
Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 04 Mar 2025 | nasen awards - Chapman Shum, Young Advocate of the Year | 00:40:18 | |
The podcast features Chapman Shum, the nasen Young Advocate of the Year 2024 winner, discussing his journey as a visually impaired musician. Chapman, who was born blind and has learning difficulties, shares how music has been a powerful tool for connection and expression. He emphasises that challenges can be overcome and aims to inspire others facing difficulties. His mentor, Professor Adam, highlights Chapman's exceptional musical abilities, including his talent for improvisation and participation in the National Open Youth Orchestra. The conversation highlights the importance of recognising the musical potential in children with disabilities, challenging stereotypes, and promoting inclusive music-making. They also discuss the Amber Trust, a charity supporting blind and partially sighted children in music, and the Sounds of Intent framework, which focuses on recognising the musical abilities of children with complex needs.
About ChapmanChapman is a young pianist who has overcome significant challenges to achieve success in music. Born blind and with complex disabilities, including autism and hearing loss, he began learning piano at the age of 6. By 13, he had earned the ABRSM ARSM diploma in Piano Performance. A recipient of the Amber Trust Award, Chapman is also a proud member of both the National Open Youth Orchestra London “NOYO” and the London Youth Folk Ensemble “LYFE”, where he continues to explore his passion for music and collaboration. Through his performances, he strives to inspire others and promote inclusivity. In 2024, Chapman was named the nasen Advocate of the Year.
About AdamAdam Ockelford is a Professor of Music at the University of Roehampton in London, celebrated for his transformative contributions to music education and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. He is the founder of The Amber Trust, a charity dedicated to supporting blind and partially sighted children on their musical journeys, ensuring that every child, regardless of their needs, can experience the joy and empowerment of music. As the creator of the "Sounds of Intent" framework, Adam has developed innovative ways to support musical development for individuals with diverse abilities. His pioneering work in music psychology and education has had a profound impact, particularly on children with autism, blindness, and other disabilities. In recognition of his dedication to inclusive music-making, Adam was recently awarded an Honorary Fellowship from Trinity College London. This prestigious honour acknowledges his efforts to ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has their musical abilities recognized and celebrated. Beyond his research and advocacy, Adam is an accomplished musician and inspiring educator, empowering countless young musicians to achieve extraordinary milestones and demonstrating that music has the power to connect, inspire, and transform lives.
About the nasen awardsThe nasen awards celebrate outstanding contributions to the education and support of children and young people with SEND. These annual awards recognise individuals, schools, and organisations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive education and the advancement of SEND practices. nasen is a charitable organisation that supports children and young people with SEND. nasen's goals include Influencing government policy, providing information, training and resources to support practitioners and contributing to the debate and effecting change to improve outcomes for children and young people.
Contact Chapmanhttps://www.facebook.com/musicismytruecalling/ https://www.instagram.com/scmchapman?igsh=MWFjYTkxMWsxaHR1 musicismytruecalling@gmail.com
Contact Adamhttps://www.facebook.com/theambertrust https://www.instagram.com/theambertrust?igsh=amNpdm9pcTBvNWZr
Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 20 Feb 2025 | Foundations of Early Literacy – What Are the Building Blocks? with Dr Sarah Moseley & Ginny Bootman | 01:00:40 | |
This week Dale is joined by Dr Sarah Moseley, Educational Consultant, and SENCO of four schools, Ginny Bootman to discuss ‘Foundations of early literacy – what are the building blocks?’ This is the first episode in a series exploring the foundational components of early literacy, which aims to bridge the gap between theory and classroom practice. They discuss the importance of oral language, vocabulary development, and how these foundational skills set the stage for reading success. Key topics include:
This episode is packed with insights and practical tips for educators, parents, and anyone interested in supporting children’s literacy journeys.
About Dr Sarah MoseleyDr. Moseley has over 30 years’ knowledge and experience within special and mainstream education from teaching assistant to Headteacher, as well as a solid research background rooted within the psychology of learning. Sarah’s Masters and PhD were in Special Education and focused specifically on the teaching of reading and self-esteem and she has presented nationally and internationally on raising outcomes for learners with SEND and is a published author of her research. In her book ‘Teaching Reading to All Learners Including Those with Complex Needs A Framework for Progression within an Inclusive Reading Curriculum’, Sarah has developed a framework for professionals, families and learners around her concept of an ‘Inclusive Reading Curriculum’. Sarah provides training, information and support focused on how to teach reading to all learners, building on current provision and practice to support confidence and deepen understanding. Now an independent Educational Consultant at www.drsarahmoseley.com, Sarah delivers face to face and online training, coaching, keynote presentations, information and support for professionals and families from all sectors, specialising in SEND focused school improvement and raising outcomes for all learners. She is passionate about making a positive difference to the lives, attitudes, and outcomes of those who may struggle to learn, based on a belief that every action can make a difference and aims to bridge the gap between theory and learning, to create a culture where high expectations thrive, improving outcomes for all pupils.
About Ginny BootmanI have been a teacher longer than I haven’t, as a Headteacher, Senior Manager and Class Teacher and now as a SENCO of 2 Primary schools in Northamptonshire. My passion lies within all things concerned with empathy and the role which empathy plays in ensuring that all of those in school settings feel valued and listened to. I am an Associate of Undiscovered Country a team who help individuals manage change.
Contact Sarahhttp://facebook.com/Drsarahmoseley http://twitter.com/drsarahmoseley
Contact Ginny
Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 08 Mar 2023 | *Special episode* Discussing the SEND and AP Improvement Plan with Claire Coutinho | 00:21:38 | |
Last summer we were all asked for our input as part of the SEND Review Green Paper consultation. Having reviewed thousands of responses, last week the government published their 101-page ‘SEND and AP Improvement Plan’.
Today Dale is delighted to be joined by Claire Coutinho, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Education, for a special episode ‘Discussing the SEND and AP Improvement Plan’.
Dale had this great opportunity to ask Claire questions and share her responses with you. In their discussion they cover:
"If you look at the entirety of the plan, we're really talking about systemic change to try and make sure that everyone's got what they need to deliver for children and young people with SEND."
Claire Coutinho, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State
We hope you find this special episode useful, if you’d like to find out more about the SEND and AP Improvement Plan, Lorraine Petersen OBE will be joining us for a SEND briefing on 22nd March. Lorraine will be giving her response and breaking down what it really means for young people, SENCOs and schools – sign up for FREE.
About Claire Coutinho
Claire Coutinho was appointed Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Education on 26 October 2022.
She was previously Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Work and Pensions from 21 September to 27 October 2022.
Clare was elected Conservative MP for East Surrey on 12 December 2019.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing)
The minister’s responsibilities include:
Useful Links
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| 11 Feb 2021 | Role of the Governing Board in relation to SEND with Kate Browning | 01:10:51 | |
In this episode we are talking about the role of the Governing Board in relation to SEND with Kate Browning. Kate is an independent SEND Consultant who focuses on school improvement for SEND. She has been a SENCo, SEN advisory teacher, local authority school improvement officer for SEND and interim Education Development Officer for NASEN. She teaches the NASENCo course for the university of Northampton and lectures for the university of Warwick on their PGCE programme. In her spare time Kate facilitates the SENCo network across Leicestershire, Warwickshire and Derbyshire, supports Governors and is also a Chair of Governors. | |||
| 27 May 2021 | Self Preservation as a parent of a child with SEND with Alison Knowles | 00:55:57 | |
This week, Dale is joined by Alison Knowles. Alison is an emotional therapist who supports emotional resilience. In this episode we are talking about self preservation as a parent of a child with SEND. Alison is the creator of the Ollie Model, the author of the series of Ollie and his Super Powers books, trainer of Ollie coaches and an emotional therapist. Useful Links: https://www.facebook.com/OllieandhisSuperPowers https://twitter.com/bemoreollie https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWDj-PRjboIg2cu-KZsEMVA https://www.instagram.com/ollie_and_his_super_powers https://www.ollieandhissuperpowers.com/
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| 03 Mar 2022 | What Makes a Great Teacher of SEN with Fintan O'Regan | 00:59:32 | |
About Fintan O'Regan
Fintan was the Head teacher of the Centre Academy from 1996 -2002, which was the first specialist school in the UK for students between the ages of 7-19 specialising issues related to ADHD, ASD and ODD.
He is an associate lecturer for Leicester University, the National Association of Special Needs, the Institute of Education, the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre and the former Vice Chairman of the UK ADHD Network and of the European ADHD Alliance.
Fintan now works as trainer and consultant for schools and school support systems including, Social Services, Health, the Police and Foster carers with regards to providing behaviour management strategies for children and families struggling with SEND and behaviour issues.
Contact Fintan O'Regan
Website – www.fintanoregan.com
Email – fjmoregan@aol.com
Twitter – @fintanoregan
Useful Links
The Bullying Problem by Alan Train
The Bully, The Bullied and the Bystander
https://www.nationalbullyinghelpline.co.uk/contact.html
For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://sendcast.wpengine.com/sendcast-episodes/ | |||
| 13 Apr 2023 | Black and Autistic or Neurodivergent with Suzy Rowland, Keisha Swaby and Lauren Fernandez | 01:04:30 | |
Did you know that children from ethnic minority groups are excluded at a rate that’s 4 times greater than their white peers? Adding neurodivergence into the equation further increases the chance of being excluded. “When you know you're already different, and then you're different within different, that's something that I feel acutely aware of.” Suzy Rowland Today Suzy Rowland, Lauren Fernandez and Keisha Swaby join Dale for this podcast ‘Black and Autistic or Neurodivergent’. Listen to hear the first-hand experiences of 3 black women and how neurodiversity affects different ethnicities and cultures in unique ways. About Suzy RowlandSuzy Rowland is the author of S.E.N.D. in the Clowns, a poetry collection and “I can’t go to school!” – a children’s workbook for school non-attenders, an ADHD & Autism Spectrum Condition Specialist, Mindful Cognitive Behaviour Therapist & Speaker. She founded the #happyinschool project to provide interactive, bespoke training and consultancy, rooted in lived experience. In this capacity, she works as an agent of change with families and young people, mental health professionals, educators, local authorities, charitable and corporate organisations, to build knowledge, connections and positive narratives about educating and employing neurodivergent thinkers. Suzy is also a presenter for Women’s LIK UltravisionTV. About Keisha SwabyKeisha is a wife and mother to four beautiful children. She is an International Inspirational Speaker and a Presenter on Radio Diamond. Keisha gave up her job of 12 years in 2016 to continue her education and pursue her dreams. Keisha completed a 3-year degree and achieved a First-Class BSc (Hons) Degree in Applied Sport and Exercise Science. During the last few weeks of her studies, she was diagnosed with severe Dyslexia and Dyspraxia at the age of 41. Keisha went on to achieve Merit in her master’s degree in health psychology at Manchester Metropolitan University. Keisha is passionate about helping others and creating more awareness of Dyslexia and Dyspraxia. Her eldest daughter was also diagnosed with Dyspraxia making her mission even closer to her heart. As part of her awareness work, she has given several people with Dyslexia and Dyspraxia the opportunity to share their own stories on her radio show. Keisha is a Goodwill Ambassador for the Jamaica Dyslexia Association. Her lived experience of these conditions has given her several opportunities to share her story on various platforms and events. She is a regular speaker at events for international women's day and was a speaker at the recent Dyslexia Show 2022. Keisha has been chosen as one of the top 50 Influential Neurodivergent Women in 2022. Keisha launched Empowering Dyslexics to inspire and be an example to others that they too can achieve anything her motto is "If I CAN do it so CAN you”. About Lauren FernandezLauren is a Neurodivergent Consultant and Trainer with a focus on Autism amongst marginalised communities. Late diagnosed, she found a lack of services, support, and representation available. Lauren’s experience highlighted changes that desperately needed to be made, after spending brief time as an inpatient and struggling to navigate access to appropriate services, she founded Mask Off C.I.C. Through her organisation, she advocates as an ambassador for Neurodiversity, providing her own training and hosting discussions across several mainstream services and organisations. Lauren endeavours to be the representation that is often missed, and to provide experience informed solutions. Contact SuzyWebsite - www.happyinschoolproject.com Email - hello@happyinschoolproject.com Twitter - @SchoolHappyin Facebook - www.facebook.com/happyinschool LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/milknosugarcomms/ Instagram - @happyinschool
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| 29 Apr 2021 | Working With Foster and Adoption Children with Alison Knowles | 00:58:12 | |
The SENDcast is a podcast we started in 2020, to help improve knowledge around SEND. Every teacher is teacher of SEND, yet the training isn’t there to support them. We created the SENDcast to try and help solve that problem, help make schools more inclusive. My guest this week is Alison Knowles. Alison is an emotional therapist, she supports emotional resilience. In this episode we are talking about supporting foster or adoption families and the specific issues those children might be facing. Useful Linkshttps://www.facebook.com/OllieandhisSuperPowers https://twitter.com/bemoreollie https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWDj-PRjboIg2cu-KZsEMVA https://www.instagram.com/ollie_and_his_super_powers https://www.ollieandhissuperpowers.com/
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| 11 Feb 2025 | nasen awards - Maxine O'Neill, Specialist provision of the year | 00:38:13 | |
Maxine O'Neill discusses Hope School, which won the Specialist Provision of the Year award. She highlights the school's commitment to a trauma-informed approach, serving 68 students and working with 32 schools across Liverpool through their HEARTS program. This program emphasises holistic thinking, empowerment, trust, and safety within the school community. Maxine explains the importance of recognising trauma in all forms, not just extreme cases, and how this understanding has transformed their approach to education. She emphasises the school's philosophy of inclusivity, stating they do not believe in exclusion and strive to maintain connections with students and families. The conversation also touches on the role of the SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) and the necessity for schools to adopt trauma-informed practices. Maxine shares her experiences and insights on building trust with parents, managing staff well-being, and the importance of empathy in leadership.
About MaxineMaxine is the Headteacher of Hope School, a specialist SEMH school, and the author of The Secret Life of SENCO. With extensive expertise in attachment and trauma, Maxine is dedicated to supporting students with complex social, emotional, and mental health needs. As the HEARTS Network Lead, Maxine champions a trauma-informed approach to schooling, ensuring that every child receives the care and education they need to thrive. ARC award winner for collaboration HEARTS project
Contact Maxinewww.hopeschool-liverpool.co.uk
Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school.
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| 21 Jul 2022 | Eating and the Senses with Joanna Grace | 01:05:30 | |
We are ending the school year with Joanna Grace who joins Dale to discuss Eating the Senses. Eating is such an emotive subject and the difficulties people with sensory differences have around eating cause enormous stress and upset at home and at school.
Listen to understand the sensory components of eating and find out how to support children to ensure the sensory experience isn’t so overwhelming.
About Joanna Grace
Joanna Grace is a sensory engagement and inclusion specialist, doctoral researcher, author, trainer, TEDx speaker and Founder of The Sensory Projects.
Joanna has worked with people with learning disabilities and neurodivergent conditions aged from 0-100 (well 1 day old – 87 years old to be precise) in a range of settings and context.
Through all she does Joanna is seeking to contribute to a future where people are understood in spite of their differences.
Contact Joanna Grace
Website - www.TheSensoryProjects.co.uk
Email - sensorystory@gmail.com
Twitter - @Jo3Grace
Facebook - www.Facebook.com/JoannaGraceTSP
Useful Links
Aside from the obvious, my son’s book My Mummy is Autistic, I have a FREE training series on YouTube aimed at mainstream SENCOs (but it has been accessed far more widely than that) that explores issues that crop up in schools around autistic students https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi1RQR58BHnW5LtJfD0Ph-RIH7EhnrP3t
My facebook is also a resource for insight into neurodivergence, with the photo albums acting as resource banks: www.facebook.com/JoannaGraceTSP people are welcome to connect with me, and my LinkedIn profile has many free to access articles that I have written on the topic of neurodiversity www.LinkedIn.com/In/JoannaGraceTheSensoryProjects | |||
| 28 Nov 2024 | Emotional Regulation Resources for SEND with Kerry Thalia | 01:02:11 | |
The results of a recent study on the widely used Zones of Regulation have come as quite a shock to many in education. Despite its widespread use, the evidence does not seem to support the use of Zones of Regulation, especially with students with SEND. In today’s episode we dive into the implications of this new research with Kerry Thalia discussing ‘Emotional Regulation Resources for SEND.’ Emotional regulation is a critical aspect of working with children and young people, significantly impacting their ability to access other areas of education. However, the literature review by Mason et al. in 2023 raises important questions about the use of Zones of Regulation with SEND students. One of the key concerns is the use of colours to label and categorise emotions and states. In the SEND context, colours often have different meanings in various areas, which can be confusing for the child or young person. Additionally, the Zones of Regulation approach does not seem to provide adequate support for the adults working with these students. In contrast, research from CASEL (The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning), suggests that supporting the adults can have positive effects on the students as well. Understanding our own emotions and emotional states can be challenging as adults. Expecting children, especially those with SEND, to identify and regulate their emotions using a colour-coded system may not be the most effective approach. Join us for this thought-provoking discussion!
About Kerry ThaliaKerry is an Autistic ADHD business owner who works to close the gap between
Contact KerryUseful LinksBumper Book of Creative Learning Access to Academic Learning Conference (October 2024)
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 22 Dec 2022 | SEND Christmas Crackers with Dr Susie Nyman - Part 1 – Making Christmas enjoyable for everyone | 00:48:15 | |
A discussion based on neurodiverse learners and strategies to help them cope with the run up to Christmas. Susie talks about strategies and solutions she has discovered whilst working in the classroom setting at The Sixth Form College, Farnborough as well as in Curriculum Support at The Oratory School. It is always useful to have a toolbox of strategies for teachers, parents/carers to use with SEND students in the run up to Christmas, to alleviate the worries and stresses of the festive season. Listen to help children with SEND to prepare for this weekend.
About Dr Susie Nyman
Dr Susie Nyman is passionate about discovering how children learn and supporting them in ways which enable them to succeed. She was appointed as a Biology teacher at The Sixth Form College Farnborough in 1995, and subsequently as Curriculum Manager for Health and Social Care where she has worked ever since.
Susie strives to raise students’ achievements and support them in ways which enables them to succeed. She works with her students deploying a range of innovative and Multi-sensory teaching techniques to assist their learning including her ‘Equality and Diversity Tree’ and famous puppets!
Additionally, she has provided training to PGCE students at Kingston University, and in a number of local schools and colleges on teaching strategies. Since February 2017, Susie has presented seminars on ‘Multi-sensory Techniques’ at The Learning Differences Conventions in Australia, Richmond College, The Helen Arkell Centre, Bell House, The Oratory School, The National Education Show and The Tes SEN Shows in London and Manchester.
Recently, she was filmed ‘in action’ for The British Dyslexia Association as well as Oaka Books, and the footage is available on YouTube. Subsequently, she has written a chapter about ‘Multi-sensory Teaching’ in the BDA Dyslexia Friendly Schools Good Practice Guide and ‘The Multi-sensory Teaching Toolkit’ by Oaka Books.
In recognition of over 21 years continued service at The Sixth Form College Farnborough, Susie has been nominated three times by the College for the ‘Tes FE Teacher of the Year Award’. This is an honour of which she is immensely proud.
Contact Dr Susie Nyman:
Website – drnymanconsultancy.co.uk
Email – drsusienyman@drnymanconsultancy.co.uk
Twitter – @DrSusieNyman
Useful Links
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| 16 Nov 2023 | The Benefits of Audiobooks with Emily Pye | 00:58:32 | |
For some children the wonderful world of books is completely closed off due to an illness or condition that impacts on their ability to read the printed word. This could be a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia, a mental health condition like anxiety, a visual impairment, or a physical condition that makes it more difficult to hold a book, such as arthritis. But there is a way to open up this world for them and break down these barriers – audiobooks! Emily Pye from Listening Books joins Dale in today’s episode ‘Benefits of Audiobooks’ to discuss:
Listen to this episode to discover the diverse benefits of audiobooks. They not only entertain but also educate, while providing a calming oasis for busy minds. Audiobooks ensure that all children can access the curriculum and achieve literacy objectives, regardless of their circumstances. Every child deserves the opportunity to explore the enriching world of literature, and audiobooks serve as a powerful tool in achieving this goal. Audiobooks can empower children with special needs to engage with stories, develop their reading skills, and foster a love for learning. About Emily PyeEmily has been working on growing the membership at charity Listening Books for the past two years. One of the areas she has been concentrating on, is looking at the benefits and impact audiobooks can bring to young people’s lives and how best to engage children both at home and at school. Contact Emilytwitter.com/ListeningBooks
Useful LinksFurther information about Listening Books’ offer for schools - https://www.listening-books.org.uk/education Blog post full of book suggestions for young reluctant readers - https://www.listening-books.org.uk/books-for-young-people-who-dont-like-reading
· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 21 Sep 2023 | Empathy? What We Need Is Compassion with Amanda Sokell | 00:59:50 | |
Empathy is the ability to put yourself in somebody else’s shoes and to understand how they might be feeling in a situation. It’s a personal connection that you need to have experienced to have empathy, which makes empathy flawed. In today’s podcast, Amanda Sokell joins Dale to discuss ‘Empathy? What we need is compassion’. Amanda created a model that for any child, and in particular a child with SEND, to be successful they need 3 key factors to be in place:
However, she discovered that empathy is actually the wrong word, what we need is compassion. Compassion is something we can all do, you can show compassion without having to experience what they’re experiencing. “You can train yourself to be more compassionate, you can’t train yourself to be more empathetic.” Amanda Sokell Anxiety is widespread in schools, frequently leading to school non-attendance. The root causes are varied and often stem from staff members lacking an understanding of students' underlying needs. Listen to hear that by equipping all staff with the ability to demonstrate compassion, instil a desire to listen, accept, and grow, it will result in greater expertise and establish more supportive environments – all children will be more successful as a result. About Amanda SokellAmanda works with caregivers of neurodiverse children and the schools that support them as they navigate the complex world of school support. Amanda know’s first-hand how isolating it can be to discover that your child isn't like everybody else's. When her son started refusing to go to school, she found myself struggling to get his needs understood and supported. Despite holding his own academically, her son was struggling with high levels of anxiety, which were having a dramatic impact on his attitude to school and behaviour at home. It can be really challenging to navigate the available support. Amanda used online resources to equip herself with a knowledge of the law, and successfully secured the provision he needed. During this process, she felt the entire range of emotions eventually moving from despondent to empowered. Despite there being a wealth of online information and support, sometimes what you really need is a conversation. Amanda helps parents and educators by sharing information on how best to support neurodiverse children, and, particularly for parents, how to secure the right support and provision for their children. Amanda works individually, with groups and through an online learning platform. She look at life through the lens of process and finds it instinctive to cut through the chaos and find step by step methodologies that are easy to follow, and which help those involved to surmount challenges and achieve. A former software developer, and school governor for 9 years, she is blessed with two spirited neurodiverse boys and an equally process-orientated and neurodiverse husband. Amanda’s interests include companies that make stuff, education, special educational needs, change and constant learning. Contact AmandaTwitter - @amandasokell @navigatingND @SENlightended_ Facebook - navigatingneurodiversity.life Website - www.navigatingneurodiversity.life Email - hello@amandasokell.com
· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe | |||
| 10 Aug 2023 | Engaging Pupils with SEMH and Other Behaviour Needs with Adele Bates | 01:08:44 | |
Behaviour is communication, it doesn’t just come out of nowhere and is only the tip of the iceberg. With more than 40 pupils being excluded daily for behaviour-related problems, it is evident that the system is not effectively addressing the issue. We have another new guest speaker this week, Adele Bates a Behaviour and Education Specialist! Adele joins Dale to discuss ‘Engaging Pupils with SEMH and other behaviour needs’. It requires a tailored approach that takes into account the individual needs and strengths of each pupil. Adele takes us through some strategies that can be effective in engaging pupils with SEMH and other behaviour needs, such as:
Listen to hear how engaging pupils with SEMH and other behaviour needs requires a compassionate and flexible approach, that takes into account the individual needs and strengths of each pupil. About Adele BatesBehaviour and Education Specialist, International Keynote Speaker & Author “I’ve had juice poured on my head, been whacked by a skateboard – and have taught a year 7 pupil who has experienced severe trauma, how to read their first ever word…” Adele Bates empowers school leaders and teachers to support pupils with behavioural needs and SEMH to thrive with their education. She’s an award winning International Keynote Speaker, a featured expert on teenagers and behaviour for BBC Radio 4, the author of "Miss, I don't Give A Sh*t," Engaging with Challenging Behaviour in Schools, from Sage & Corwin Press, and is a fully funded International Researcher in Finland, the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica on Behaviour & Inclusion, as well as teaching for nearly 20 years… For her tips and resources check out adelebateseducation.co.uk. Contact AdeleWebsite – adelebateseducation.co.uk Email – adele@adelebateseducation.co.uk Twitter – @adelebatesZ Useful LinksPick My Brain: Behaviour Lead Mastermind:
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| 21 Nov 2024 | Time Saving Tips for SENCOs with Ginny Bootman | 00:58:36 | |
SENCOs have a notoriously busy role spinning many plates. Ginny Bootman, a SENCO working across four schools, joins Dale in this episode ‘Time saving tips for SENCOs’ to provide insights on how to work smarter, not harder. “We want to actually be with the children, so by saving time in other ways, we get to spend more time with them, which is what it's all about.” Ginny Bootman Here are some highlights from our conversation:
Whether you're a seasoned SENCO or just starting in the role, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you reclaim your time and enhance your effectiveness.
About Ginny BootmanI have been a teacher longer than I haven't, as a Headteacher, Senior Manager and Class Teacher and now as a SENCO of 2 Primary schools in Northamptonshire. My passion lies within all things concerned with empathy and the role which empathy plays in ensuring that all of those in school settings feel valued and listened to. I am an Associate of Undiscovered Country a team who help individuals manage change.
Contact Ginny
Want to hear more from Ginny?Ginny joined Dale live in our studio to present 2 CPD training sessions: 1. Making meetings work: for children; parents; SENCOs and schools Register your place now for just £10 per session which can be shared with your whole school.
Useful LinksGinny's Book - Independent Thinking on Being a SENDCO: 113 tips for building relationships, saving time and changing lives
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 23 Jan 2025 | Sleep Neurodiversity and Learning Disability with Dr Jill McGarry | 00:59:06 | |
Getting to sleep can be challenging for some, often leading to hours spent trying to unwind before finally drifting off. Improving sleep is crucial – not just for children and young people, but also for their parents, families, friends, classmates, teachers, and communities as a whole. Dr Jill McGarry, consultant clinical psychologist and sleep expert, joins me in today’s episode to discuss ‘Sleep, Neurodiversity and Learning Disability’. With over 28 years’ experience around sleep, Jill discusses:
Tune in to gain a better understanding of sleep, including the science behind it and some eye-opening (or should that be shutting?) insights!
About Dr Jill McGarryJill is a Clinical Psychologist with 28 years of NHS experience in psychological support for people with mental health issues. Throughout this work Jill has supported many people how have had sleep problems. This led Jill to complete both the sleep masterclass at Oxford University’s SCNI and the 3-day training course with Sleep Unlimited as well as weekly taking part in the BSM international sleep seminars chaired by Arizona University .She is a member of the British Sleep Society and has supported the Sleep Charity develop a programme. From this she has built up a wealth of knowledge and experience at improving sleep for several client groups, including setting up a reasonable adjustment sleep apnoea clinic for Greater Manchester. Currently Jill runs a private practice for improving sleep. Over the past two years Jill has carried out numerous sleep awareness courses for wellbeing teams in NHS trusts and ICBs; schools/ college forums; counselling organisations; care and respite home managers; More specifically she has provided two bespoke training sessions for UCLH NHS Trust on learning disability and neurodiversity, co-facilitated a national conference on sleep & SEND and presented a webinar nationally for Autism Hears. Recently Jill has advised Baywater and NHS England on a project to develop materials for people with sleep apnea and reasonable adjustments.
Contact Jillhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jill-mcgarry
Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 01 Sep 2022 | Let's Use Technology with Students with Arran Smith | 01:18:51 | |
Welcome back, hope you had a great Summer and now ready for everything this term brings. The first podcast for this school year starts with ‘Let’s use technology with students’ with Arran Smith.
How much tech do you use? It is everywhere in the world, but not in schools.
“We still have a 21st century intake of students to a 19th century education system and we haven't really moved on enough.”
Arran joins Dale to discuss using technology to remove barriers to progress and to help prepare students for their future. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the world and when we look at education we need to make sure children use it early on.
Listen to find out what free resources you can use in your classroom and how technology can support and empower your students, especially those with SEND.
About Arran Smith
When Arran was aged 9 he was diagnosed with dyslexia. He uses the metaphor that dyslexia is like going to the dentist, well that’s how it was for him all the way until he was 14. This was the age when he realised that dyslexia is a difference, not a disadvantage.
Despite Arran being severely dyslexic Arran uses technology to support his needs and without technology, he would not be doing what he is doing today.
Useful Links
Virtual SEND Conference - www.virtualsendconference.com
The Dyslexia Show (was the 20th and 21st of March 2020, but has been postponed) - www.dyslexiashow.co.uk
Contacting Arran
Website: www.sendgroup.co.uk
Email: arran.smith@sendgroup.co.uk
Twitter: @arrandyslexia | |||
| 04 Sep 2020 | Healing the trauma of COVID 19 - The Recovery Curriculum for all pupils with Sarah Jane Critchley Part02 | 00:41:24 | |
In this week’s podcast Dale Pickles from B Squared is joined by Sarah Jane Critchley to discuss the Recovery Curriculum, designed to help heal the trauma of COVID 19. This is the second part of this episode, so if you missed the previous episode, please go listen to that one first. In a post-COVID world, many children in our schools will have experienced a number of losses and the schools they are returning to are not the same as the places they left. They have lost routine, structure, friendship, opportunity and freedom. How can listening to them and their parents help their academic as well as emotional recovery? Useful Links:
How to contact Sarah-Jane: Twitter: @SarahJaneCritch Instagram: www.instagram.com/sarahjanecritchley/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/differentjoy/ | |||
| 10 Mar 2022 | Happy Birthday, We are 2! Let's look back over the last 2 years. | 01:28:10 | |
Little did we know when launching the SENDcast 2 years ago, that the world as we knew it was about to drastically change. We hope that you’ve enjoyed listening to the episodes through the highs and lows and have kept you company whether you’ve been walking, running, driving, painting etc.
In this 2nd birthday episode Sarah-Jane Critchley joins Dale in the studio to celebrate creating podcast number 87! They reflect on their favourite episodes, significant events and changes in SEN from their perspective. Sarah-Jane is an Author, Speaker, Consultant and Coach from Different Joy Partnership – most importantly she is a top fan of The SENDcast! With over 73k downloads, 87 episodes, 2 awards and 100+ hours of content we are going from strength to strength. We just wanted to say a big thank you for listening from the SENDcast team here at B Squared. It’s an honour to meet such fascinating speakers and produce these fun, interesting and thought-provoking episodes
About Sarah-Jane Critchley
Sarah-Jane is an Author, Speaker, Consultant and Coach from Different Joy Partnership. She was previously the Programme Manager for over 10 years at the Autism Education Trust. Pupils with autism often struggle with attending school for a number of reasons. Her daughter Beth is autistic and also suffers from migraines which meant from Year 3 onwards she missed a lot of school and missed over 50% of her GCSE classes, eventually dropping out of school in year 12.
Contact Sarah-Jane:
Twitter: @SarahJaneCritch
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sarahjanecritchley/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/differentjoy/
Useful Links
For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://sendcast.wpengine.com/sendcast-episodes/ | |||
| 25 Feb 2025 | nasen awards - Dale Pickles, Resource for SEND | 00:36:31 | |
In this podcast episode, Dale Pickles takes a step back from hosting duties where his colleague Jon asks the questions. They discuss the success of the SENDcast podcast, which won the Resource for SEND at the nasen awards 2024. Dale reflects on the podcast’s journey over four years, highlighting its reach of over 350,000 listens and contributions from 83 experts in the field. Dale emphasises that the recognition from nasen is not just personal but aims to expand the podcast's audience, helping more people discover its valuable resources. He discusses the challenges, why he produces the podcast, memorable moments and heartfelt feedback received from listeners. Dale expresses his desire to continue exploring diverse topics within the SEND community and encourages people to be ‘curious, not judgmental’. About DaleDale is the Managing Director of B Squared. He works with schools all over the UK to help deliver best practice, reduce teacher workload and help schools move forward with assessment. Dale is the host of the SENDcast, the #1 podcast for Special Needs and CPD online training, providing affordable SEND education for all. Dale has spoken at conferences such as the Autism Show and Tes SEND Show. About the nasen awardsThe nasen awards celebrate outstanding contributions to the education and support of children and young people with SEND. These annual awards recognise individuals, schools, and organisations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive education and the advancement of SEND practices. nasen is a charitable organisation that supports children and young people with SEND. nasen's goals include Influencing government policy, providing information, training and resources to support practitioners and contributing to the debate and effecting change to improve outcomes for children and young people.
Contact DalePodcast and CPD around SEND for schools and parents - SENDcast
Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 04 Nov 2021 | Desperately Seeking Certainty with Clare Ward and Dr Jamie Galpin | 01:10:53 | |
Did you know that our brain is actually a kind of prediction making machine? We essentially see the world by guessing it. What we're constantly trying to do is to stay one step ahead and the sensory information we're going to receive. We do this in order to conserve energy so this predictive processing takes less effort.
The moment where learning happens is when you come across a prediction error, when you’re surprised by something you weren’t expecting – this is uncertainty. We don't like it because we don't know what to do and over the past 18 months we have all lived through uncertainty with the pandemic and all the new challenges this has brought us.
In this week’s episode we're discussing whether we need to support every pupil in every need differently, or are there approaches that support everyone? My guests this week are Clare Ward and Dr Jamie Galpin. Clare has worked in the world of SEN for the last 30 years in a variety of roles and Jamie also has a long career in SEN. They talk about a growing move towards transdiagnostic approaches to mental health and SEN and their development of a new model to support all children and young people.
Resources:
The Anxiety Workbook for Supporting Teens Who Learn Differently – published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers 21st April 2021. | |||
| 13 Mar 2025 | Why We Need More Support For Neurodivergent Teachers with Catrina Lowri | 01:08:33 | |
We typically discuss how to support neurodivergent children, but what about teachers? Today, Dale and Catrina Lowri, founder of Neuroteachers, discuss the need for increased support for neurodivergent teachers and support staff. Catrina shares her personal journey as a neurodivergent educator with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, dyslexia and ADHD. She sheds light on the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the education system, including stigma, lack of understanding, and inadequate support. Catrina highlights the importance of recognising the strengths and needs of neurodivergent teachers, advocating for a more inclusive and understanding environment in schools. She talks about the significance of representation and the positive impact of having neurodivergent role models for students. Pointing out that “if you have neurodivergent teachers and support staff in your school, then you are representing that 20% of children who have neurodivergent needs. They gravitate towards you and they like having an adult role model who's been relatively successful but also has similar needs and strengths and as them.” Catrina shares her experiences of masking her neurodivergence in the classroom and the burnout that can result from it. She encourages educators and institutions to adopt a more holistic approach to support, focusing not only on one aspect of neurodivergence but addressing the individual needs of each teacher. Listen to practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent staff, such as flexible working arrangements, access to resources, and creating a culture of openness. View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop!
About Catrina LowriCatrina is a neurodivergent former SENCO and Advisory Teacher with a dual diagnosis of bipolar and dyslexia. She created her company; Neuroteachers to support schools and businesses with simple solutions to improve Neuro-inclusion.
Contact Catrina
Useful LinksDear fellow neurodivergent teacher Inclusive work environments in schools
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 14 Nov 2024 | I’m Bipolar, But Don’t Call Me Crazy with Catrina Lowri | 01:14:06 | |
**Please note this podcast covers sensitive topics, including suicide, and carries a trigger warning.** Psychosis, hallucinating, depression, mania…..did you know these are all symptoms of bipolar disorder? Living with this condition can be terrifying, not just for those who experience it, but also for their family and friends. Catrina Lowri joins Dale today for a candid discussion on her journey with bipolar ‘I’m bipolar, but don’t call me crazy’. Catrina starts by explaining what bipolar is and the profound impact it has had throughout her life, from her studies and career to her experiences with fertility treatment. The conversation delves into the complexities of medication management. Catrina outlines her struggles with various medications, highlighting the importance of finding the right treatment plan while managing side effects and the impact on daily life. “I don't want to not be bipolar; I just don't want it to scare the living daylights out of me.” Catrina Lowri Don’t miss this insightful episode that sheds light on the realities of living with bipolar.
About Catrina LowriCatrina is a neurodivergent former SENCO and Advisory Teacher with a dual diagnosis of bipolar and dyslexia. She created her company; Neuroteachers to support schools and businesses with simple solutions to improve Neuro-inclusion.
Contact Catrina
Useful LinksNeurodivergent Teachers Network: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001669034065988
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 28 May 2020 | Exclusions – Reasonable response or hard-wired inequality? with Sarah-Jane Critchley | 01:06:53 | |
In this week’s podcast Dale Pickles from B Squared is joined by Sarah Jane Critchley to discuss Exclusions, how legal are they and why isn’t more being done to prevent them. The statistics are shocking and terrible and more needs to be done. In this episode we discuss the different types of exclusion, when are exclusions are illegal, the two way link between mental health and exclusion and that there are alternatives. Sarah-Jane Critchley is passionate about helping autistic people, their families, friends and supporters live happier lives of their own choosing. She is the internationally recognised author of ‘A Different Joy: The Parents’ Guide to Living Better with Autism, Dyslexia, ADHD and More...’. and contributor to two titles on autism and girls. Sarah-Jane spent 10 years as Programme Manager of the AET. Whilst there she commissioned the AET’s guides to exclusions. She also spoke at the NAHT 2019 SEND and the NAS 2019 Professional Conference on exclusions, and what schools can do to avoid them and to parents’ groups on Exclusions, Absences and Illness. Exclusions continue to increase, nearly 8,000 pupils permanently excluded from school. One of the limited bits of good news is, that is only a small percentage of schools that are excluding pupils, 85% of schools excluded NO pupils at all in 2016-17. Sadly 78% of exclusions were pupils with SEND, Children in need or on Free school meals. Exclusions have a big lifelong effect on a child. Exclusions can cause a “collision course with failure” (Robert Halpern MP – Chair of the Education Select Committee). Gang members are 5.5 times more likely to have been excluded than the rest of the population. 85% of children in Young Offender Institutions have been excluded.
Useful Links:
How to contact Sarah-Jane: Twitter: @SarahJaneCritch Instagram: www.instagram.com/sarahjanecritchley/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/differentjoy/ Email: sarah-jane@differentjoy.com
For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://www.thesendcast.com/sendcast-episodes/ | |||
| 18 Nov 2021 | Story Metaphor and Its Use in Supporting Emotional Literacy with Dr Trisha Waters | 00:48:11 | |
We enjoy listening to and telling stories, they often reflect our own experiences or emotions and we use metaphors to express ourselves. Particularly so in young children, it's almost as though metaphor is their natural language. Very young children tend to imitate the adults around them and they try to make sense of their experience through their make believe play.
Pupils with social, emotional and mental health difficulties need to be able to share their personal narrative in a safe way in order to make sense of their experiences. Story metaphor is ideal for doing this whilst supporting the pupils’ literacy skills.
During today’s episode I discuss the use of metaphors within stories to support emotional literacy with my guest Dr Trisha Waters. Trisha is an educational therapist who began her career supporting pupils with emotional and behavioural difficulties. After that she led the MA in SEN & Inclusion at the University of Chichester and is now a director of the Centre for Therapeutic Storywriting.
Listen to find out how you can support your pupils’ emotional literacy and wellbeing through story metaphors.
Resources:
storylinkstraining.co.uk (video on home page)
Therapeutic Storywriting: A Practical Guide to Developing Emotional Literacy in Primary Schools by Trisha Waters Research papers: https://www.therapeuticstorywriting.co.uk/research/research-story-links
Video: Introducing Therapeutic Storywriting Groups - https://therapeuticstorywritingtraining.co.uk (video on home page)
‘Therapeutic Storywriting: A Practical Guide to Developing Emotional Literacy in Primary Schools’ by Trisha Waters - https://www.therapeuticstorywriting.co.uk/book
Therapeutic Storywriting Research Papers - https://www.therapeuticstorywriting.co.uk/research/research-tsw-groups
Contact Trisha:
Website: www.therapeuticstorywriting.co.uk
Twitter: @TherapyStoryhttps://twitter.com/therapystory
Facebook: Centre for Therapeutic Storywriting | |||
| 10 Apr 2020 | BONUS : Corona - Supporting Someone with Anxiety - Part 02 | 01:13:34 | |
In this, our third Corona BONUS episode looking at Anxiety within the context of the current Corona pandemic, Dale Pickles, Managing Director of B Squared is joined by his guest Sarah-Jane Critchley. Anxiety is a big topic normally, but right now with all the changes that have happened over the last few weeks to our every day lives, it is huge. In this episode we start with the question ‘What is anxiety?’, this isn’t a simple question as everyone feels anxious, it is how much it impacts on your life. Jane provides us with a great way to rate your anxiety and ways to help manage or reduce your anxiety. Our conversation then moved on to what can be done now, what can be done at home and the importance of exercise. Some of the strategies discussed include:
At the end of the podcast we also discussed the difficulty some children will face transitioning back to school when school starts again. We discussed how schools can support transitions to new schools, when the normal transition process cannot be followed. Useful LinksCoronavirus Trusted Sources:
Emotional Distress Detector Toolkit - Emotional Distress Detector Toolkit https://differentjoy.krtra.com/t/DMZtVGKHe1Za
Mindfulness Resources:
Molehill Mountain App: https://www.autistica.org.uk/get-involved/molehill-mountain-app
Smiling Mind App – ‘Thrive Inside’ - https://www.smilingmind.com.au/ - FREE
Headspace app – https://www.headspace.com/headspace-meditation-app includes free 10 day beginner’s course.
Cards Against Anxiety – Dr Pooky Knightsmith https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cards-Against-Anxiety-Guidebook-Card/dp/1419743759
When My Worries Get Too Big!: A Relaxation Book for Children Who Live with Anxiety - Kari Dunn Buron
Useful Websites for Anxiety: Young Minds - https://youngminds.org.uk/find-help/conditions/anxiety/ Spoon Theory by Christine Miserandino - https://butyoudontlooksick.com/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory/ Energy Accounting – Maja Toudal on Network Autism https://network.autism.org.uk/knowledge/insight-opinion/energy-accounting-interview-maja-toudal Autism and Adapted CBT: Dr. Joshua Muggleton article for Network Autism https://network.autism.org.uk/comment/3734#comment-3734 Autism Education Trust (AET) Sensory Checklist http://www.aettraininghubs.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/37.2-Sensory-assessment-checklist.pdf
Different Joy Academy Only £1 a month to access the Different Joy Academy – Exclusive to SENDCast listeners (minimum of 3 months) | |||
| 19 Jan 2023 | How Schools Can Build Positive Well-being Among Students with Sue White | 00:44:29 | |
95% of schools have seen an increase in pupil anxiety, which makes anxiety and mental health evermore important topics. We need to support student’s well-being so they can get the most out of their learning and fully engage in school life, but it doesn't always require big changes.
Our new special guest, Sue White, joins Dale for the first time on the SENDcast to discuss ‘How schools can build positive well-being among students’. We process visuals much faster than we process language, so when anxious, a visual can enable more effective communication. Sue comes from a background of visuals and symbols so she highlights how we can give students the tools they need to be able to express their emotions.
Listen to this episode to hear how you can use visuals and symbols to enable students to communicate their feelings and build positive well-being in your setting.
“We're making everything inclusive, we're reducing the anxiety, we're giving everybody access and hopefully having a positive and happy classroom in the process.”
About Sue White
A qualified primary teacher, Sue’s passion for building children’s vocabulary came after teaching a child with specific learning difficulties. Sue could see that the child’s behaviour in class was borne from a frustration of not being able to fully participate in lessons. Determined to help, Sue started a long journey of learning how to help children who process learning differently. She first became a SENCo and later specialised in a range of developmental disorders where lack of vocabulary development impacted on attainment.
Sue discovered that symbols – visual representations of words – can help all children comprehend spoken and written text, communicate better, as well as build confidence, independence and vocabulary. She has been with Widgit since 2018 where she has advised hundreds of schools on how to use symbols to improve learning and support delayed language development.
Contact Sue White
Website - https://www.widgit.com
Email - Sue@widgit.com
Twitter - @Widgit_Software
Instagram - @widgitsoftware
Facebook - facebook.com/widgitsoftware26/
Useful Links
Sue recently co-authored a report: Walking the talk: A vocabulary recovery plan for primary schools.
30 day free trial of Widgit Symbols software to helps schools improve children’s language and literacy skills https://www.widgit.com/language
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| 23 Mar 2023 | The What and Why of Compassionate Co-Regulation with Jyoti Jo Manuel | 00:51:57 | |
Have you heard of compassionate co-regulation? It means that when we calm and regulate ourselves as the adults, we create an energetic circle of safety that supports the children around us to regulate themselves. It’s hard to be truly compassionate and kind when we are stressed out. In this week’s episode, Jyoti Jo Manuel, the founder and director of Special Yoga, joins Dale to discuss ‘The what and why of compassionate co-regulation’. We talk about how we underestimate the impact that we have as the adults around children and that children learn best from how we are and how we model behaviour. “The energy field that we create inside and outside creates a compassionate, caring space for another.” Jyoti Jo Manuel Listen to hear the importance of looking after ourselves first. Balancing our autonomic nervous system (the part that controls involuntary actions, such as the beating of your heart) changes our thoughts, reduces our worries and anxieties, and helps us to become more heartfelt and kinder. Jyoti tells us that if teachers and parents/carers are balanced and calm then children can thrive. About Jyoti Jo ManuelJyoti has been practising yoga since 1974 and teaching since 1989. She is one of the leaders in the training and application of yoga as a therapeutic intervention for children with special and additional needs. She pioneered children’s yoga in the UK. She set up the global training school, Special Yoga in 2002 to provide sustainable and accessible training programmes and to support practitioners delivering the work . She works with local education authorities, NHS, academies and individual schools, parents/carers and paediatric professionals. She has travelled globally to extend Special Yoga in Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Australia, Mexico, Peru, Russia, and many countries in Europe. She is currently training 45 psychologists in the Ukraine to support their traumatised children. Contact JyotiWebsite – www.specialyoga.co.uk Email – info@specialyoga.co.uk Instagram – @Specialyogaglobal Facebook – Special Yoga | Facebook
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| 16 Mar 2023 | Mental Health and Behaviour: Nature or Nurture? Risk and Resilience with Fintan O'Regan | 00:53:55 | |
The nature vs nurture debate in mental health and behaviour refers to the extent to which genetics (nature) and environmental factors (nurture) influence the development of mental health conditions and behaviours. Both genetics and environment play a role in shaping mental health and behaviour, but the exact extent of each factor is still not fully understood. A DfE report on mental health and behaviour cited 4 sets of risk factors that are believed to be associated within:
Fintan O’Regan, Behaviour and SEN Consultant, joins Dale in this week’s podcast to discuss ‘Mental Health and Behaviour: Nature or Nurture? Risk and Resilience’. In this episode we consider the complex nature vs nurture debate, and risk and resilience factors to offset and support children and families. Find out from Fintan how both genetics and environment play important roles in shaping mental health outcomes. About Fintan O’Regan MA, PGCE BScHe was the Head teacher of the Centre Academy from 1996 -2002, which was the first specialist school in the UK for students between the ages of 7-19 specialising issues related to ADHD, ASD and ODD. He is an associate lecturer for Leicester University, the National Association of Special Needs, the Institute of Education, the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre and the former Vice Chairman of the UK ADHD Network and of the European ADHD Alliance. Fintan now works as trainer and consultant for schools and school support systems including, Social Services, Health, the Police and Foster carers with regards to providing behaviour management strategies for children and families struggling with SEND and behaviour issues.
Contact Fintan O'ReganWebsite - www.fintanoregan.com Email - fjmoregan@aol.com Twitter - @fintanoregan
Useful LinksBehaviour and Mental Health: a new approach. www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk O’Regan F (2005) Surviving and Succeeding in SEN Continuum International O’Regan F (2006) Challenging Behaviours Teachers Pocketbooks O’Regan F (2006) Troubleshooting Challenging Behaviours Continuum International O’Regan F (2018) Successfully Managing Children ADHD Second edition :Routledge Falmer Press O’Regan F (2020) Supporting behaviour in the classroom: Sage publications limited MH and Behaviour in schools 2018. Available at : https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mental-health-and-behaviour-in-schools-
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| 20 Jul 2023 | EHCNA with Amanda Sokell | 00:53:02 | |
Local Authorities are seeing unprecedented demand for Education Health & Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) and as a result are struggling to keep up. The situation is further complicated by many parents requesting EHCPs, but not receiving them due to refusals from authorities, leaving schools caught in the crossfire. As a result, there is widespread confusion among schools and parents about this area. Amanda Sokell, Advocate and Neurodiversity Trainer, joins Dale for her first episode to discuss the ‘EHCNA’. In many cases an EHCNA is triggered as a placement has broken down. However, with the right support and accommodations, many of these children and young people could have had successful placements without the need for an EHCNA. Amanda emphasises the importance of ensuring that only the appropriate children are referred for an EHCNA and considering alternative solutions when it may not be necessary. By improving our understanding of this area, we can work together to achieve better outcomes for all children.
About Amanda SokellAmanda works with caregivers of neurodiverse children and the schools that support them as they navigate the complex world of school support. When her son started refusing to go to school, she found myself struggling to get his needs understood and supported. Despite holding his own academically, her son was struggling with high levels of anxiety, which were having a dramatic impact on his attitude to school and behaviour at home. It can be really challenging to navigate the available support. Amanda used online resources to equip herself with a knowledge of the law, and successfully secured the provision he needed. During this process, she felt the entire range of emotions eventually moving from despondent to empowered. Despite there being a wealth of online information and support, sometimes what you really need is a conversation. Amanda helps parents and educators by sharing information on how best to support neurodiverse children, and, particularly for parents, how to secure the right support and provision for their children. Amanda works individually, with groups and through an online learning platform. She look at life through the lens of process and finds it instinctive to cut through the chaos and find step by step methodologies that are easy to follow, and which help those involved to surmount challenges and achieve. A former software developer, and school governor for 9 years, she is blessed with two spirited neurodiverse boys and an equally process-orientated and neurodiverse husband. Amanda’s interests include companies that make stuff, education, special educational needs, change and constant learning.
Contact AmandaWebsite – www.navigatingneurodiversity.life Email – hello@amandasokell.com Twitter – @amandasokell @navigatingND @SENlightended_ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/navigatingneurodiversity.life
Useful LinksAn introduction to SEND online course: https://members.navigatingneurodiversity.life/An_Introduction_To_SEN_Intro IPSEA https://www.ipsea.org.uk/
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| 02 Feb 2023 | Girls on the Spectrum - Autism and Puberty with Victoria Ellen | 01:05:10 | |
Puberty is a topic that is rarely discussed and when taught at school the feelings and emotions are often not explained in detail. It can be seen as an embarrassing subject for both parents/carers and young people, therefore conversations can be avoided and when young people start puberty they can feel unprepared. Puberty brings a lot of physical changes, especially for girls, including body growth and menstruation.
Victoria Ellen joins Dale today for ‘Girls on the Spectrum: Autistic experiences of Puberty’ which is an open discussion on the experience of puberty for girls with autism, covering:
Victoria highlights not only the physical aspects of puberty, but also navigating emotional and social development. Listen to understand an autistic girl’s experience of puberty and the impact it has on all aspects of everyday life, especially at school.
About Victoria Ellen
Victoria Ellen is a late diagnosed Autistic adult. She is an online content creator who shares her experiences of Autism via cute aesthetically pleasant graphics and striking captions.
She is an Autistic researcher and public speaker, who uses her knowledge of research and her own personal experiences to educate and inform others, as well as providing resources and advice.
Contact Victoria Ellen
Website - Actuallyaspling.wordpress.com
Twitter - @actuallyaspling
Instagram - @actuallyaspling
Facebook - Facebook.com/actuallyaspling Useful Links
https://personal-eyes-education.com/swrnir
https://www.robynsteward.com/the-autism-friendly-guide-to-periods
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| 22 Oct 2020 | Autism and Coronavirus – The new normal for children and their families with Lana Grant | 01:18:26 | |
In this week’s podcast, Dale Pickles from B Squared is joined by Lana Grant to discuss Autism and Coronavirus – The new normal for children and their families Lana has a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome and is also a parent of children on the autism spectrum Lana is a specialist SEN advisor and an advocate for SEN children and their families. Lana has worked Lara’s first book “From Here To Maternity, pregnancy and motherhood on the Autism Spectrum” was published in 2015. Lana also contributes to various aritcles, podcast and delivers talks at various shows and events. We recorded this episode on the 1st of September 2020 and over the next few days the majority of students across England are returning to school. Everyone has responded to the pandemic and the lockdown differently. For people with autism in particular there have been some positives of lockdown and returning to normal or a “new normal” could cause a lot of anxiety. In the podcast, we discuss the outcome of the pandemic and what it means for our children and their parents/carers. How have autistic people coped going into lockdown and then coming out? What are the concerns for the future and how can we support families to move forward in these seasons of change and unpredictability? For autistic people in particular there have been some positives of lockdown. A parent had commented to Lana that it was if the whole world now knows what autism is like…needing to socially distance, the need for routine and rule-following, less crowded places, not being able to read people’s expressions due to face coverings. Then we came out of lockdown and this increased lots of people’s anxiety and mental health as things began to change almost back to normal. Contact Lana GrantWebsite – www.lana-grant.co.uk Email – enquiries@lana-grant.co.uk Twitter – @LanaGrantAutism For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://www.thesendcast.com/sendcast-episodes/ | |||
| 20 Mar 2025 | ‘Improve not Prove’: Self-Evaluation for Continuous Improvement in Inclusion | 00:56:27 | |
Inclusion continues to be a hot topic in education, and while schools have made tremendous strides in fostering inclusivity, several barriers remain, particularly league tables and Ofsted defining school intent. In our latest episode of the SENDcast, Dale speaks with Maria Dawes, CEO of the Schools Alliance for Excellence. Maria shares valuable insights on how schools can leverage self-evaluation to drive continuous improvement in inclusion, especially for underserved learners. What resonated with me was Maria's approach to shifting the focus from proving effectiveness to genuinely improving practices and being experts in your own setting. She emphasises that by fostering a culture of robust self-evaluation, school leaders can take ownership of their actions and create an environment where all students feel included and supported, regardless of their backgrounds or needs. Maria developed the Surrey Inclusion Framework to facilitate meaningful discussions and thorough self-assessments around inclusion. As she aptly states, “There are things that you can do that don't make you fundamentally more inclusive; inclusivity is a culture.” View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop!
About Maria DawesMaria is the CEO of Schools Alliance for Excellence and STSN, a school-led company that provides school improvement, curriculum and leadership development for schools in Surrey and other local regions. She has a strong track record of working collaboratively and in partnership with a range of agencies to support schools to improve rapidly and sustain improvement. Maria is passionate about a school-led system, believing bringing all schools, providers and partners together creates an educational landscape that is more than the sum of its parts. She also believes strongly in equity of opportunity and inclusion. She has an unwavering desire to ensure that all young people get the education they deserve including those with additional needs, and those that are vulnerable and underserved. Her previous roles included a number of senior leadership posts in schools, Senior HMI and Deputy & Regional Schools Commissioner.
Contact Mariahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/schools-alliance-for-excellence/
Useful LinksVLOG - a new way for school accountability Blog - inclusion self evaluation
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 11 Jan 2024 | Arousal and Self-Regulation with Kim Griffin | 01:03:32 | |
Factors such as hunger, fatigue, illness, excitement, or nervousness can all influence a child’s state of arousal in a classroom and can significantly impact their engagement and learning experience. In this week’s podcast, Kim Griffin, Occupational Therapist, joins Dale to discuss what we mean by the term ‘arousal’ and how this links to self-regulation. Kim explains that arousal is the level of energy or alertness present in the body and how different levels of arousal can affect children. It is a neurological process that, to some extent, can be managed, but eventually reaches a point beyond our control. During this episode, Kim highlights:
By comprehending the connection between arousal and self-regulation, we can create supportive environments that optimise learning and well-being. About Kim GriffinKim is an occupational therapist with 20 years’ experience supporting children, young people, their families and teachers to participate successfully in their daily lives. Her interest areas are sensory processing and autism. Kim provides online training for those who want to learn more about sensory processing, motor skills and handwriting along with programmes that show you have to help children improve their skills.
Contact Kim Griffinhttps://twitter.com/Griffin_OT
Useful Links· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 06 Jul 2023 | Exercise, Play and Sensory Integration for Disabled Children with Stephanie Wheen | 01:01:50 | |
We all know the benefits of exercise. But as we look at the world around us, the opportunities for people with disabilities to exercise is extremely limited. Playgrounds, swimming pools, climbing walls, trampoline parks etc are all great facilities for children to exercise, build confidence, improve balance and coordination. Many now provide sessions for children with additional needs. However, some parents have tried these activities only to find out that they are not entirely inclusive. Stephanie Wheen, CEO and Founder of Gympanzees, joins Dale today to discuss ‘Exercise, Play and Sensory Integration for Disabled Children’. We talk about:
There are small changes that can be applied which will make a massive difference to the lives of children with disabilities. Listen to hear top tips on how they can be applied at home, at school or in the community. About Stephanie WheenStephanie is a highly specialised paediatric physiotherapist who has been in the industry for 20 years. She set up Physio for Children Ltd in Bristol. She is also the founder and CEO of the multi-award-winning charity, Gympanzees, providing services for disabled children and young people. The charity has now launched a multi-million-pound appeal to build the UK’s first, fully inclusive play and exercise centre in Bristol. Contact StephanieWebsite – https://www.gympanzees.org/ Twitter - @GympanzeesUK Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GympanzeesUK https://www.facebook.com/groups/Gympanzees Useful LinksGympanzees website - https://www.gympanzees.org/ Online Resources Hub - https://www.gympanzees.org/our-services/online-resource-hub Webinars Proprioception - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIgJYhPhZ10 Sensory Integration - https://www.gympanzees.org/our-services/therapy-webinars/understanding-sensory-processing-and-strategies-to-try-at-home High-Tone - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rI0SlD3N9o
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| 09 May 2024 | What is an OT? with Kim Griffin | 00:47:37 | |
We’ve all heard of Occupational Therapists – but do we truly understand the breadth and depth of their role? Kim Griffin has been an OT for over 20 years and joins Dale for today’s podcast ‘What is an OT?’. Kim sheds light on the history of the profession, explains how the name was derived and how it can specialise in different areas; such as working with children, adults, mental health, SEND, orthopaedics and so on. An OT’s role can support people across their lifespan! Kim specialises in paediatrics and has extensive experience working with SEND children within schools. During the podcast, I ask Kim the below questions:
“If the lesson is too hard for them, no amount of movement break or sensory circuit or weighted blanket is going to help that child access the lesson.” Kim Griffin Listen to get a deeper understanding of the OT role and how you can maximise their contributions within your school to support your students.
About Kim GriffinKim is an occupational therapist with 20 years’ experience supporting children, young people, their families and teachers to participate successfully in their daily lives. Her interest areas are sensory processing and autism. Kim provides online training for those who want to learn more about sensory processing, motor skills and handwriting along with programmes that show you have to help children improve their skills.
Contact Kimhttps://twitter.com/Griffin_OT https://www.facebook.com/GriffinSensoryOT/
Useful Links· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 09 Mar 2023 | Dyspraxia and Handwriting with Kim Griffin | 00:57:43 | |
We live in a digital age, so where do we see or use joined up writing nowadays? Everything has moved on since putting pen to paper and writing letters! Most adults tend to type a lot more than they write, however handwriting is still a big focus in schools.
“Handwriting is so much more complicated than a lot of people necessarily give it credit for.” Kim Griffin, Occupational Therapist
The DfE released new guidance in the Research Review Series which looks at handwriting as a separate skill. Kim Griffin joins Dale in today’s podcast to discuss ‘Dyspraxia and Handwriting’, listen to find out what this new guidance says and what is best practise for teaching. Kim talks about the various skills and elements involved in handwriting:
If a student has dyspraxia, the planning element of how to actually form letters is really tricky. Listen to top tips on making handwriting easier and how you can support students in your setting. About Kim Griffin
Kim is an occupational therapist with 20 years’ experience supporting children, young people, their families and teachers to participate successfully in their daily lives. Her interest areas are sensory processing and autism. Kim provides online training for those who want to learn more about sensory processing, motor skills and handwriting along with programmes that show you have to help children improve their skills.
Contact Kim Griffin
Website - www.GriffinOT.com
Email - Training@GriffinOT.com
Twitter - @Griffin_OT
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GriffinSensoryOT/
Useful Links
https://twitter.com/profamandakirby/status/1362306501130485764?lang=ar
https://www.griffinot.com/how-to-help-children-with-dyspraxia/
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| 07 Nov 2024 | Reflections On How To Promote Positive Mental Health For SENCOs with Angela Scott | 01:15:43 | |
The current Ofsted inspection frameworks acknowledge the vital responsibility educational leaders have for the wellbeing of their staff. However, anecdotal evidence from SENCOs in schools and settings suggests they are at particular risk of poor mental health, and that increasing workload over the pandemic has exacerbated this. Angela Scott, Regional Lead for SEND, joins Dale again to discuss ‘Reflections on how to promote positive mental health for SENCOs’. Angela tells us that gaining an awareness of the risks and protective factors linked to the role of SENCO is necessary to ensure stability and job-satisfaction within this important workforce. Angela discusses:
Listen in for a deeper understanding of mental health and to discover practical strategies that can empower SENCOs to fulfil their leadership roles in SEND while protecting their own mental well-being.
About Angela ScottAngela Scott is the Regional Lead for SEND for the Eastern Partnership UK (SEND) and is programme lead for the National Award for SEN Coordination, Advanced SENCO and SENCOs as Leaders Awards. She is steering the development of the SLCN and SEMH level 4 qualifications and is author of the transformative audit and planning tool known as aptGO; designed to help schools work within Ofsted judgements Good and Outstanding. She is a member of a number of national working groups for SEND and has created and delivered the professional development programme for the introduction of SENCOs into Hong Kong primary and secondary schools. Contact AngelaEasternp.send@hertsforlearning.co.uk
Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 19 Sep 2024 | Reconstructing the Students' Brain using The Person-Centred Approach to Learning with Dr Susie Nyman | 01:35:46 | |
All students benefit from personalised learning. By empowering them in a person-centred manner, they can engage openly with educators, making essential connections between subject content and their own experiences. This approach enhances their ability to remember and recall key information for future examinations. We're thrilled to welcome back Dr. Susie Nyman in this week’s episode for another engaging discussion on personalisation and the person-centred approach for SEND students. Her insights are rooted in her work at The Sixth Form College, Farnborough, including her involvement with the Thursday Dyslexia Club. In her conversation with Dale (and Percy Pig), Susie covers the following key topics:
Additionally, Susie shares strategies and solutions tailored to various students and subjects, drawn from her classroom experiences. The discussion focuses on aligning personal needs, goals, and aspirations with real-world contexts, ensuring that learning is both meaningful and accessible.
About Dr Susie NymanDr Susie Nyman is passionate about discovering how children learn and supporting them in ways which enable them to succeed. She was appointed as a Biology teacher at The Sixth Form College Farnborough in 1995, and subsequently as Curriculum Manager for Health and Social Care where she has worked ever since. Susie strives to raise students’ achievements and support them in ways which enables them to succeed. She works with her students deploying a range of innovative and Multi-sensory teaching techniques to assist their learning including her ‘Equality and Diversity Tree’ and famous puppets! Additionally, she has provided training to PGCE students at Kingston University, and in a number of local schools and colleges on teaching strategies. Since February 2017, Susie has presented seminars on ‘Multi-sensory Techniques’ at The Learning Differences Conventions in Australia, Richmond College, The Helen Arkell Centre, Bell House, The Oratory School, The National Education Show and The Tes SEN Shows in London and Manchester. Recently, she was filmed ‘in action’ for The British Dyslexia Association as well as Oaka Books, and the footage is available on YouTube. Subsequently, she has written a chapter about ‘Multi-sensory Teaching’ in the BDA Dyslexia Friendly Schools Good Practice Guide and ‘The Multi-sensory Teaching Toolkit’ by Oaka Books. In recognition of over 21 years continued service at The Sixth Form College Farnborough, Susie has been nominated three times by the College for the ‘Tes FE Teacher of the Year Award’. This is an honour of which she is immensely proud.
Contact Susiedrsusienyman@drnymanconsultancy.co.uk
Useful LinksTeaching students from the inside out - podcast Inclusive Learner Cocktails - podcast
Vote for B Squared at the Education Today Awards: https://educationtodayawards.co.uk/vote/
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 04 Jul 2024 | Looking and Trusting Inside Rather Than Looking For Solutions Externally with Alison Knowles | 01:08:43 | |
We have become victims to the “norm” and we doubt our self-worth based on external benchmarks such as houses, cars, grades, clothes. Parenting is around your child doing better than the next or behaving the way they do and not necessarily celebrating their uniqueness. Alison Knowles returns today to discuss ‘Looking and trusting inside rather than looking for solutions externally’. Alison explores the reasons why we aren’t trusting our judgement and why we’re basing our sense of self on others’ achievements. Asking for advice is healthy, but the problem arises when you’re constantly seeking validation, rather than trusting our ability to evaluate the information and decide what’s right for us. During the discussion we delve into:
Listen to this empowering discussion and learn how to trust your inner voice!
About Alison KnowlesAli is a practising emotional therapist, author of the Ollie and his Super Powers series of books, public speaker, NLP trainer and creator of the Ollie Model. Ali’s strength is the unique way she views the world and her instinctive ability to empower you or your child to find the solutions from within.
Contact Alisoninfo@ollieandhissuperpowers.com https://twitter.com/bemoreollie
Useful LinksYouTube - Ollie and his super powers
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 19 May 2022 | Pupil Voice and Choice Making with Sarah-Jane Critchley | 01:40:20 | |
About Sarah-Jane Critchley
Sarah-Jane is an Author, Speaker, Consultant and Coach from Different Joy Partnership. She was previously the Programme Manager for over 10 years at the Autism Education Trust. Pupils with autism often struggle with attending school for a number of reasons. Her daughter Beth is autistic and also suffers from migraines which meant from Year 3 onwards she missed a lot of school and missed over 50% of her GCSE classes, eventually dropping out of school in year 12.
Contact Sarah-Jane:
Twitter: @SarahJaneCritch
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sarahjanecritchley/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/differentjoy/
Useful Links
For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://sendcast.wpengine.com/sendcast-episodes/ | |||
| 23 Sep 2021 | What is Grief? with Alison Knowles | 00:50:47 | |
Welcome to the SENDcast. The phrase 'Every teacher is teacher of SEND' is currently an ideal, not a reality. We created the SENDcast to try and help solve that problem, to help make schools more inclusive and to help teachers be teachers of SEND. The SENDCast is also a great way to get the same information to parents and other people working with young people with SEND. Dale's guest this week is Alison Knowles. Alison is an emotional therapist, she supports emotional resilience. In this episode Dale and Alison discuss grief. Grief is so much more than losing a loved one. It’s a traumatic emotion experienced at the loss of or perceived loss of something innately important to an individual.
Useful Linkshttps://www.facebook.com/OllieandhisSuperPowers https://twitter.com/bemoreollie https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWDj-PRjboIg2cu-KZsEMVA https://www.instagram.com/ollie_and_his_super_powers https://www.ollieandhissuperpowers.com/
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| 09 Nov 2023 | Dual and Multiple Exceptionality with Fintan O'Regan | 00:56:12 | |
Pupils can be described as exceptionally gifted, talented or highflyers but often that ‘gift’ is hiding something else and there is no hint of SEN within that description. It is estimated that 5-10% of children identified as having high ability also have a special education need or disability. Have you heard of DME and 2E? Fintan O’Regan joins Dale to introduce the terms ‘Dual and Multiple Exceptionality’ (DME or 2E - Twice Exceptional in America) in today’s podcast. DME refers to individuals who possess exceptional abilities or talents in combination with one or more learning or developmental disabilities. These individuals demonstrate both high cognitive potential as well as specific learning challenges or disabilities. During the episode, Fintan highlights the 4 types of DME and discusses how individuals’ exceptional abilities can mask or overshadow their challenges, making it challenging to identify and provide appropriate support. Conversely, their disabilities can sometimes mask their strengths, leading to unfulfilled potential and missed opportunities. By recognising and addressing the needs of Dual and Multiple Exceptional individuals, we can create an environment that nurtures their strengths, supports their challenges, and enables them to reach their full potential across all areas of their lives. About Fintan O’Regan MA, PGCE BScHe was the Head teacher of the Centre Academy from 1996 -2002, which was the first specialist school in the UK for students between the ages of 7-19 specialising issues related to ADHD, ASD and ODD. He is an associate lecturer for Leicester University, the National Association of Special Needs, the Institute of Education, the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre and the former Vice Chairman of the UK ADHD Network and of the European ADHD Alliance. Fintan now works as trainer and consultant for schools and school support systems including, Social Services, Health, the Police and Foster carers with regards to providing behaviour management strategies for children and families struggling with SEND and behaviour issues. Contact Fintan O'Reganhttps://twitter.com/fintanoregan Resources
· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school.
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| 28 Jan 2021 | Ensuring Access to High Quality Teaching with Natalie Packer | 00:53:38 | |
This week’s podcast is discussing High Quality Teaching and how to ensure all children have access. Our guest is Natalie Packer, an independent education consultant, specialising in SEND and school improvement. Natalie develops and delivers a wide range of training and support to schools, multi-academy trusts and other organisations. She is a member of Nasen’s 0-11 Advisory Group, and also supports the Whole School SEND review process. On top of this and being a Governor and Trustee Natalie has also found time to write books The Perfect SENCO and The Teacher’s Guide to SEN.
Useful Links:
Special Educational Needs in mainstream schools, EEF guidance report - https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/tools/guidance-reports/special-educational-needs-disabilities/
SEN Support: Research evidence …document by DfE: https://www.sendgateway.org.uk/r/sen-support-research-evidence-on-effective-approaches-and-examples-of-current-practice-in-good-and-outstanding-schools-and-colleges.html Rosenshine’s Principles in action - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rosenshines-Principles-Action-Tom-Sherrington/dp/1912906201 My book which includes a chapter on HQT - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Teachers-Guide-SEN-Natalie-Packer/dp/1785830252 Focus On training for staff available at www.nasen.org Maximising the impact of TAs website: http://maximisingtas.co.uk
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| 10 Apr 2025 | How Dealing with Mental Images and ‘re-wiring’ the Brain Can Create Breakthroughs for Dyslexia with Lou Barnes | 00:51:44 | |
In our latest episode, we dive into the challenges faced by children struggling with reading and writing. It's crucial for us as educators to recognise the signs that indicate a child's brain may not be processing text in a way that allows for easy reading and spelling. Dale is joined in our new studio by Lou Barnes, a trainer and founder of Unlock Learning. Lou discusses the role of mental images and how ‘re-wiring’ the brain can lead to breakthroughs for individuals with dyslexia. She introduces Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), which focuses on understanding and changing subconscious patterns that affect behaviour and learning. Lou shares her experience working with dyslexic children and emphasises that many struggles stem from fear and frustration when traditional teaching methods fail. Her fascinating theory on how NLP can help create clearer mental images offers a new perspective on improving reading and comprehension. I really enjoyed the analogies they used in this conversation to describe how our brains work – definitely worth a listen! View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop!
About Lou BarnesI was a primary school teacher for 20 years. I loved teaching and but was aware of bright, creative children struggling with literacy every year. Eventually I found it too painful and frustrating to see them struggle. The way we were ‘helping them’ was not working. Despite school intervention, extra phonics groups etc, they were not improving. I hated seeing many of them lose confidence or get labelled as naughty or lazy. I decided that there had to be a better way. Then I came across Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP). I was instantly fascinated. I felt it could hold real answers so I left full-time teaching to study NLP in depth. I learned was that our subconscious brains are incredibly powerful, and that by working with it, I could rapidly make reading (and spelling) easier to understand for people who previously just couldn’t make sense of letters and words. I found out WHY my students struggled and HOW to change that. I believe it’s the missing piece for helping dyslexic students. Over the next years, I developed a process and started working with children and adults one-to-one. The results of blending NLP with my teaching knowledge and experience were extraordinary. In the end, I took the plunge to be totally self-employed and set up Unlock Learning. For the past 15 years I’ve been working, as Unlock Learning, with dyslexic children, and some adults using my 2-part process. First the NLP ‘magic’ to get the brain ready to see, store and be comfortable with letters and words. Then I pop on my teacher hat and teach reading and spelling because what was once so hard is now easy for that child. It’s my passion and purpose. I love doing what I do and the way I do it. I' I live in a beautiful part of Sussex, with my husband in a very quiet spot where I really enjoy my garden, especially growing as much as possible in my veg patch and sitting with friends around a fire in the evenings. I love walking with Tilly, my dog; sunrise at the beach is a favourite way to start the day. Although I’m mostly content to be at home, I also love adventures, travel and the chance to try new things which in the past has included living in Thailand, riding motorbikes and being in a band.
Contact Louhttps://www.unlock-learning.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/unlocklearning https://www.linkedin.com/in/lou-barnesunlocklearning/
Useful LinksSEN Magazine Article detailing my ‘imaginary creature’ process
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 31 Mar 2022 | Finding your Tribe | 01:03:35 | |
This week's episode ‘Finding your Tribe’ with Alison Knowles, is a discussion about how important it is for young people to find their tribe and their place in the world. We all strive to feel accepted, normal and fit in, but this can be especially challenging for children with additional needs. About Alison KnowlesAli is a practising emotional therapist, author of the Ollie and his Super Powers series of books, public speaker, NLP trainer and creator of the Ollie Model. Ali’s strength is the unique way she views the world and her instinctive ability to empower you or your child to find the solutions from within.
Contact Alison Knowles
Website - www.ollieandhisuperpowers.com
Email - Ali@subconquest.co.uk or info@ollieandhissuperpowers.com
Twitter - @bemoreollie
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/OllieandhisSuperPowers
Useful Links
https://www.facebook.com/OllieandhisSuperPowers
https://twitter.com/bemoreollie
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWDj-PRjboIg2cu-KZsEMVA
https://www.instagram.com/ollie_and_his_super_powers
https://www.ollieandhissuperpowers.com/
For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://sendcast.wpengine.com/sendcast-episodes/ | |||
| 30 Jan 2025 | The Power of Language with our SEND Kids with Ali Fanshawe | 01:03:30 | |
“CALM DOWN!” “I’ve already asked you THREE times to put your shoes on!” “How dare you talk to me like that!” Do you ever find yourself standing at the bottom of the stairs, hollering at your child? Or perhaps you’re dealing with a child who is sobbing hysterically while you're racing against the clock for work. We all carry 'core scripts' learned during our childhood, which influence our daily interactions with our children. It often feels natural to use familiar phrases and tones from our own upbringing. But do these phrases really work? Being a parent or educator is hard. But being a SEN parent or educator is relentless. A few years ago, this was the experience of Ali Fanshawe. Ali couldn’t understand why she was struggling to deal with her children’s ‘fizzy moments’ in a more compassionate way. In today’s episode Ali joins Dale to discuss ‘The power of language with our SEND kids’. Ali tells us that it is critical to accept that our SEN kids need a different form of communication and interaction in order to support them. Adopting a new parenting language can radically transform family dynamics and help calm the chaos at home or in a classroom. It’s about re-learning the way we talk to and interact with our kids so that we’re being the parents and teachers they need us to be, not the ones we were taught to be. Listen to discover tools and strategies to use that can ease the pressure at home and school.
About Ali FanshaweAli founded FizzyKids in 2018, having left the corporate world to become a full time Parent Carer to her two adopted kids with special needs. Frustrated by the lack of practical resources on parenting her children, she set out to re-learn her parenting approaches and in doing so created a new parenting language which she is now sharing with other parents in the hope that it helps transform family and classroom dynamics.
Contact Alihttps://www.facebook.com/@thefizzykids https://www.instagram.com/thefizzykids/
Useful Linkshttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Stop-Telling-Your-Kids-CALM/dp/1036900746 Ali has recently released a new book 'How to stop telling your kids to calm down (and why it doesn't work anyway)'. Ali Fanshawe has been on a journey to better understand and parent her two adopted kids with additional needs. Her work has led to a realisation that you have ‘core scripts’ learnt during your childhood, that are embedded in the day-to-day language you use when you parent your kids.
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 20 Oct 2022 | SEN Register with Abigail Hawkins | 00:56:15 | |
There are various opinions on ways to use the SEN Register and differs from one school to another and across local authorities. SENCOs can end up with multiple registers; SEN Register, additional needs, medical and disability. As soon as a register is created it needs maintaining and updating, therefore increases workload. There is no written rule so everyone has their own interpretation which is part of the problem – so let’s get back to basics.
Abigail Hawkins joins Dale for the first time on the podcast to discuss the 'SEN Register:
“I think sometimes it's just, it's not necessarily having a register, it's being aware of your students, aware of who you've got and who can advocate for themselves.” Abigail Hawkins, SEN Consultant
Listen to this episode to find out who goes on the SEN register and how to reduce your workload by:
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| 07 Mar 2024 | How exercise is different for children with SEND and why it matters with Miriam Saffer | 01:08:17 | |
There is a lot of talk about the need for reasonable adjustments and targeted support for those with SEND when it comes to school, but far less about the need for accessibility and inclusion in other aspects of life. Research shows that the rates of obesity, asthma, heart disease and many other long term negative health outcomes are significantly higher in communities and groups of the population who have a disability, whether that’s a physical or a neurodivergent condition. Keeping physically active is vital to good health, but depending on a young person's needs, the options available can be extremely limited. In light of this, Miriam Saffer a Consultant in Inclusion, Neurodiversity and Special Educational Needs, joins Dale in this episode to discuss ‘How exercise is different for children with SEND and why it matters’. Miriam highlights the barriers to engaging in sport and exercise for children and young people with SEND. These challenges range from difficulties in understanding game rules during PE lessons, to issues encountered in noisy gym environments. Exercise-based interventions for children with SEND have a wide range of benefits. By raising awareness of the need for such interventions and understanding their positive impact, we can make a significant difference in the long-term outcomes for many children and young people. Listen to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of exercise and the benefits of sport-based interventions on physical health, emotional well-being, and long-term outcomes across all areas of SEND. About Miriam SafferMiriam is the founder of Illuminate Inclusion, an organisation that provides a range of services for families, professionals and community organisations. Miriam is a specialist in neurodiversity who works with a range of needs, including ADHD, autism and dyslexia. Her background is in special educational needs. She has worked extensively across primary, secondary and further education settings both as a teacher and SENCO/ALNCO.
Contact Miriamhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083107280012 http://instagram.com/illuminateinclusion https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriam-saffer/ enquiries@illuminateinclusion.co.uk
Useful Links
· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 24 Feb 2022 | Language for Learning with Wendy Lee | 00:49:51 | |
Spoken language is core to learning and has a significant impact on children who find it difficult understanding language or putting their sentences together.
In this SENDcast episode ‘Language for Learning’, we discuss the importance of supporting and promoting language and its impact on learning in the classroom. Dale's guest is Wendy Lee, a speech and language therapist with over 30 years’ experience in a wide range of settings.
“We all bring those different perspectives, and if we can utilise our language to get the best out of the discussion, something else will come out of it that none of us could do on our own. And that's what we want to teach children to be able to do.” Wendy Lee
A focus on Oracy, the ability to express oneself fluently in speech, is growing in many schools in the UK. Wendy explores what this means for children and young people with Speech, Language, Communication Needs (SLCN). Find out how to teach children and young people how to utilise their own talk skills to develop their thinking and their learning. With the right approaches and adaptions your pupils can benefit enormously from a focus on oral language skills in your classroom.
Hear proven strategies you can put in place in your classroom to:
About Wendy Lee
Wendy has worked as a speech and language therapist for over 30 years, in clinical practice, higher education and the third sector. She was Professional Director at The Communication Trust until 2015 where she led on a number of projects, as well as inputting on national policy and research.
Wendy is currently the Director of LINGO, which provides consultancy, professional development, resources and speech and language therapy. She works with academics, academy trusts, schools and settings and in partnership with local and national organisations supporting speech, language and communication.
Contact Wendy Lee
Website - www.lingospeech.co.uk
Email - wendy@lingospeech.co.uk
Twitter - @Lingo_speech
Useful Links
http://www.dfes.gov.uk/listeningtolearn/downloads/LearningtoListen-CorePrinciples.pdf
Exploring the involvement of children and young people with SLCN (ican.org.uk)
Clark A, Quail S, Moss P, (2003) Exploring the field of Listening to and consulting with Young Children Thomas Coram Research Unit DfES
Owen, Hayett and Roulstone (2004) Children’s views of speech and language therapy in school: consulting with communication difficulties CLTT
SEND code of practice: 0 to 25 years - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Bercow-Ten-Years-On-Summary-Report-.pdf (bercow10yearson.com)
Evidence – Bercow: Ten Years On (bercow10yearson.com)
https://www.thecommunicationtrust.org.uk/media/449470/involving_cyp_with_slcn_toolkit.pdf
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| 18 Jul 2024 | Living with Dyscalculia with Peter Cherry and Cat Eadle | 01:02:40 | |
For many of us, everyday tasks such as entering our PIN numbers, not exceeding the speed limit, food shopping or telling the time we take for granted. However, for individuals living with dyscalculia, these seemingly simple numerical activities can pose significant, and often debilitating, challenges. Dyscalculia affects 6-10% of the population (around 4 million people), the same proportion as dyslexia, but unlike dyslexia, most people haven’t heard of it. Dyscalculia is a little-known, much misunderstood and under-researched learning difficulty. Today, Peter Cherry joins us to give us an insight into what it’s like ‘Living with Dyscalculia’ along with Cat Eadle, co-founder of the Dyscalculia Network. Peter and Cat give us a great overview of dyscalculia and cover topics including:
Listen to this insightful discussion to learn about dyscalculia and help to ensure that those impacted by this learning difficulty receive the support, adjustments and respect they deserve. New episodes will still be going live over the Summer holiday so hopefully you’ll have some time to sit back and relax in the sunshine listening to more fantastic guests! Have a great Summer break!
About Peter CherryPeter Cherry is a passionate volunteer for the Dyscalculia Network, where he serves as Chair of the Adults with Dyscalculia Advisory Board. His drive to raise awareness and advocate for dyscalculia has led him to write about his experiences in letters to the Guardian, in an article for Frame Magazine, and to be interviewed for pieces on dyscalculia in BBC News, BBC Sussex and the i Paper. He has ambitions to write a book on dyscalculia. Peter works as Assistant Director at the British Institute at Ankara, is author of an academic book published by Bloomsbury and holds a PhD in Comparative Literature from University of Edinburgh.
About Cat EadleCat Eadle is the co-founder of The Dyscalculia Network C.I.C and co-author, along with Prof. Steve Chinn, of the innovative 'Succeed with Dyscalculia' series of books. With a career spanning 29 years in education, Cat's unwavering dedication for supporting individuals with dyscalculia and maths difficulties underscores her extensive experience. Holding a Bachelor of Education from Oxford University, Cat then became a certified specialist in mathematics learning difficulties in 2003. She initially applied her expertise in school settings but in 2017, she established 'The Little Maths Room,' where she offers tutoring services to learners of all ages with dyscalculia and other Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLDs). Cat is passionately committed to helping learners to build solid mathematical foundations and has a unique ability to nurture confidence and competence in mathematics ensuring learning is both accessible and enjoyable. Cat now spends much of her time co-running and co-developing the Dyscalculia Network including planning Dyscalculia Day and co-organising the Dyscalculia Show at the NEC, Birmingham. Cat provides training sessions for educators and also provides CPD for workplaces and community organisations. She often consults with the Dyscalculia Network’s Adults with Dyscalculia Advisory Board to ensure that the voices and experiences of those with dyscalculia are heard.
Contact The Dyscalculia Network
Useful LinksSucceed with Dyscalculia – Cat Eadle and Steve Chinn MDA- Maths and Dyscalculia Assessment- Emerson and Jennings- Jessica Kingsley Masking Maths: Dyscalculia and Me’ by Peter Cherry, page 43 BBC article - Dyscalculia: Do Rishi Sunak's maths plans add up for everyone? BBC article - Parents call for maths learning support
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 25 Mar 2021 | What is Anxiety? with Alison Knowles | 00:49:05 | |
In this episode we are revisiting anxiety and simply asking the question what is anxiety? Alison Knowles returns to help us explore this. Alison is an emotional therapist. This does not mean that she often cries during therapy. She supports emotional resilience. In this episode we are talking about the reality you created and the impact this has on you.
Useful Linkshttps://www.facebook.com/OllieandhisSuperPowers https://twitter.com/bemoreollie | |||
| 10 Dec 2020 | Why we are the way we are with Alison Knowles | 00:58:29 | |
In this episode Dale welcomes Alison Knowles back to the show. Alison is an emotional therapist. This does not mean that she often cries during therapy. She supports emotional resilience. In this episode we are talking about why we are the way we are. We are born different, we are born at different times, different generations with different challenges. We have different experiences, different ideals, we all respond differently to situations and take different things away from events. Because of this Alison, you feel we don’t fit into boxes and we don’t need labels. They discuss The Ollie Model explanation of why we are different, why we believe what we believe, why we don’t need labels and don’t fit into boxes. Knowledge is power. Knowledge gives control and control makes us feel safe and able to cope. Understanding that everyone is different and therefore should be treated differently. Useful Linkshttps://www.facebook.com/OllieandhisSuperPowers https://twitter.com/bemoreollie https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWDj-PRjboIg2cu-KZsEMVA https://www.instagram.com/ollie_and_his_super_powers KeywordsEveryone is individual and unique Everyone sees the world differently People don’t need to stay stuck in the model of the world they have created. Why shouldn’t we put labels on people Why shouldn’t we put people into boxes | |||
| 08 Feb 2024 | Challenging the Pedagogy of Professional Decline with Rachel Lofthouse | 01:16:06 | |
When schemes and policies control every aspect of a teacher's week to improve efficiency, it can unintentionally strip away what makes teachers unique—their quirks, passion, and individual personalities. This focus on efficiency, conformity, and standardisation stands in stark contrast to the ideals of pedagogy and can have a detrimental effect on children, young people, and their dedicated teachers. “Teachers are not challenged to think for themselves and teachers often really flourish when they do, and so do their learners”. Rachel Lofthouse In our latest episode, Rachel Lofthouse, Professor of Teacher Education and Director of CollectivED joins Dale to introduce the new concept ‘the pedagogy of professional decline’. Rachel describes the phrase as – both classroom practices and CPD (Continuing Professional Development) which reduce agency, neglect expertise, drive conformity, narrow opportunities, damage relationships. It is the opposite of helping learners flourish. Rachel highlights that one of the symptoms of pedagogy of professional decline is that we aren’t creating very sophisticated learners. We’re creating learners who can be successful in a certain type of task as opposed to wide-ranging tasks. Listen to hear insights into its characteristics and how and why to challenge it.
About Rachel LofthouseRachel Lofthouse is Professor of Teacher Education at Leeds Beckett University and founder of CollectivED The Centre for Coaching, Mentoring, Supervision and Professional Learning. She has worked in education for over 30 years and has maintained a keen interest in understanding and enabling professional learning at all career stages and across education sectors. She has a specific research expertise in mentoring and coaching and has regularly published in this area for 20 years. Her current extended interests include developing practices to support a more sustainable education profession and more inclusive schools, and she is participating in EU funded projects on these areas.
Contact Rachelhttps://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/research/collectived/ r.m.lofthouse@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Useful LinksCarnegie School of Education Blog Taking a stand against the pedagogy of professional decline blog
· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 11 Apr 2024 | Controller, Friend or Benevolent Dictator with Fintan O'Regan | 01:06:47 | |
The impact of a teacher's style and approach can be profound, especially when it comes to students with special educational needs (SEN) and behaviour challenges. Some teachers effortlessly handle students perceived as "difficult", while others struggle and resort to excessive punishment. On this week's podcast, we're discussing teacher styles for supporting SEN and behaviour with our regular guest Fintan O’Regan. Fintan looks a 3 specific types of teacher style and considers the merits of each - are you a controller, a friend, or a benevolent dictator?
It is crucial that teachers themselves, recruiters, and those involved in teacher training consider what it takes for the vision of every teacher to be a teacher of every child. This includes those who appear ready and available to learn and those that have SEND. Listen to explore the considered merits of the 3 teacher styles, which Fintan perceives to be the most effective, and strategies and potential outcomes with each approach. “You have to find a way that suits your style within the institution you're in and be allowed to flourish.” Fintan O’Regan, Behaviour and SEN Consultant About Fintan O’Regan MA, PGCE BScHe was the Head teacher of the Centre Academy from 1996 -2002, which was the first specialist school in the UK for students between the ages of 7-19 specialising issues related to ADHD, ASD and ODD. He is an associate lecturer for Leicester University, the National Association of Special Needs, the Institute of Education, the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre and the former Vice Chairman of the UK ADHD Network and of the European ADHD Alliance. Fintan now works as trainer and consultant for schools and school support systems including, Social Services, Health, the Police and Foster carers with regards to providing behaviour management strategies for children and families struggling with SEND and behaviour issues.
Contact Fintanhttps://twitter.com/fintanoregan https://www.facebook.com/FintanORegansBehaviourManagementConsultancy/
Useful Links
· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 29 Aug 2024 | Identifying Language Needs in Primary Through Screening | 00:48:16 | |
Schools invest in tools to identify and support students with Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN). But are these investments paying off? Many schools struggle with poor implementation, wasting valuable time and resources. We're excited to welcome back Angharad Welch, Speech and Language Therapist, to the SENDcast! Four years after her debut, Angharad returns to discuss ‘Identifying language needs in Primary through Screening’. In this episode, Angharad emphasises the importance of effective screening practices and the challenges schools face in implementing them. Here are some of the takeaways:
“Your tool is only as good as your implementation and follow through.” Angharad Welch Listen to hear Angharad’s expertise on how to ensure an effective screening process and her view on the top screening tools available.
About Angharad WelchAngharad is an experienced Speech and Language Therapist working with children from birth to adulthood, and their adults. She runs her own business, Find the Key Speech and Language Therapy, which offers direct therapy services to families and settings in Herefordshire, as well as products and trainings to support SENCOs and other Educators. Angharad believes that Therapists and settings need to work together to ensure effective identification and support for young people that reflects the complex realities of the current education system, not just generic advice and strategies.
Contact Angharadhttps://twitter.com/FindthekeySLT Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 24 Aug 2023 | Additional Needs Haircut Services with Craig Henderson | 00:56:02 | |
Many children with additional needs face challenges when it comes to getting their hair cut. It can be an incredibly stressful experience for everyone involved, despite the fact that haircuts are a necessity for everyone. Getting a haircut can overwhelm the senses, with numerous challenges such as, the apron/cloth, noise from clippers, music, lighting, smells etc. Children are taught not to interact with strangers, yet they find themselves in a situation where a stranger is standing in their personal space, holding scissors, and expecting them to tolerate everything happening around them. Craig Henderson runs a neurodiverse and gender-neutral barbershop in Bolton and joins Dale today to discuss ‘Additional Needs Haircut Services’. He brings a wealth of experience working with and supporting children and young people, both within his barbershop and by visiting schools. Craig’s mission is to educate all parties involved, dispel fear, and facilitate safe and comfortable haircuts. Haircuts don’t have to be a stressful and anxiety triggering experience. Listen to find out:
About Craig HendersonCraig Henderson runs a neuro diverse and gender-neutral barbershop in Bolton with his fiancée Sarah, and they have 4 children and 2 of them are on the spectrum. He has been hairdressing and barbering for over 10 years and was trained in traditional methods, which has been a blessing when working with these fantastic humans with additional needs. He is a brand ambassador for industry brand, Gamma Plus. Contact CraigWebsite - https://www.craigsbarbershop.co.uk Email – Hello@craigsbarbershop.co.uk Twitter – @Craigsbarbershopbl2 Instagram - @Craigsbarbershopbolton / @craighenderson_srsb Facebook - Craigsbarbershopbl2 Useful LinksPick My Brain: Behaviour Lead Mastermind:
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| 26 Jan 2023 | Supporting Autism in Schools with Yoga with Jyoti Jo Manuel | 00:47:15 | |
Schools are notoriously difficult environments for children with autism to function in, let alone thrive in. We need to support them with understanding, and effective impactful tools to help them to navigate the challenges that they experience in life.
Jyoti Jo Manuel joins Dale in today’s episode ‘Supporting Autism in Schools with Yoga’. Jyoti discusses the value and need for yoga as a therapeutic intervention for children and young people with autism. Having worked with children across the autism spectrum, she shares how and why practising yoga supports them.
Breathing techniques are proven to calm the nervous system, which in turns helps to enhance the quality and quantity of sleep, improve digestion, and improve mental and emotional health and resilience. Jyoti highlights the importance of adults taking care of themselves in order to support children “I don't believe that you can help a child to regulate if you're not regulated”.
Listen to find out how yoga can support your pupils with autism and help them to manage the sensory complexities of the classroom.
About Jyoti Jo Manuel
Jyoti has been practising yoga since 1974 and teaching since 1989. She is one of the leaders in the training and application of yoga as a therapeutic intervention for children with special and additional needs. She pioneered children’s yoga in the UK. She set up the global training school, Special Yoga in 2002 to provide sustainable and accessible training programmes and to support practitioners delivering the work . She works with local education authorities, NHS, academies and individual schools, arents/carers and paediatric professionals. She has travelled globally to extend Special Yoga in Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Australia, Mexico, Peru, Russia, and many countries in Europe. She is currently training 45 psychologists in the Ukraine to support their traumatised children.
Contact Jyoti Jo Manuel
Website - www.specialyoga.co.uk
Email - info@specialyoga.co.uk
Instagram - @Specialyogaglobal
Facebook - Special Yoga | Facebook
Useful Links
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/professional-practice/yoga-schools
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32677240/
https://themindedinstitute.com/yoga-stress-anxiety-children-autism/
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| 24 Sep 2020 | Developing a Whole School Approach to SEND with Natalie Packer | 01:02:52 | |
If we are really going to make a difference to pupils with SEND in our schools, then the development and organisation of provision needs to be led from the top. No matter how good an individual SENCO or SEND team in a school might be, they will only ever be able to make real improvements if the senior leadership team are on board. This is why a whole school approach to developing SEND provision is so important. This week on the show our guest is Natalie Packer, author of The Perfect SENCO. Natalie has extensive experience as a trainer and can offer specialist training and advice that is flexible and tailored to the needs of your school. You can find Natalie: on Twitter - @NataliePacker http://www.nataliepacker.co.uk
Useful Links: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Perfect-SENCO-Natalie-Packer/dp/178135104X - Natalie's book - The Perfect SENCO https://www.amazon.co.uk/Great-Expectations-Leading-Effective-Strategy/dp/1911382489 - Great expectations by David Bartram (a book on leading SEND strategy) https://www.bathspa.ac.uk/media/bathspaacuk/education-/research/senco-workload/National-SENCO-Workload-Survey-Report-Jan-2020.pdf - Bath Spa / nasen workload survey report updated SENCO Induction Pack – https://www.sendgateway.org.uk/whole-school-send/sencos-area/ WSS SEND Review - https://www.sendgateway.org.uk/whole-school-send/find-wss-resources.html
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| 26 Nov 2020 | How to Become a Dyslexic Grade Riser with Dr Susie Nyman | 01:11:48 | |
This week’s show is on How to Become a Dyslexic Grade Riser. An approach to help students with dyslexia to learn and prepare for exams. Our guest is Dr Susie Nyman, the Curriculum Manager at The Sixth Form College, Farnborough. She is passionate about discovering how children learn and supporting them in ways which enable them to succeed. She has provided training to PGCE students at Kingston University, and in a number of local schools and colleges on teaching strategies. She also delivers talks on multi-sensory techniques around the world. Susie is amazing, she has spent her teaching career really looking at how people learn. In this episode we discuss how students can become dyslexic grade risers. This approach is designed to help students with dyslexia, but as many things it will benefit all students. Useful Links:
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| 09 Jul 2020 | Communication Friendly Environments with Angharad Welch | 01:08:28 | |
In this week’s podcast Dale Pickles from B Squared is joined by Angharad Welch to discuss communication friendly environments, also referred to language rich environment or communication friendly spaces. Angharad Welch isa Speech and Language Therapist who runs Find the Key Speech and Language Therapy. Angharad has worked with a number of organisations including NASEN and ourselves at B Squared, she also speaks at various events. A communication friendly environment is something that supports all pupils, but especially for pupils struggling with speech, language or communication needs. It is not always big changes, but by making these changes you are removing some of the barriers that prevent or limit children’s development. When we are talking about a communication friendly environment, it isn’t just what is in the classroom, it is how we structure the day and the opportunities we give children.
Useful Links Communication Trust www.thecommunicationtrust.org.uk Elklan Training ‘Communication Friendly Settings’ https://www.elklan.co.uk/information/commissioners-schools/communication-friendly-settings
Contact Angharad Welch Website – www.findthekeyslt.co.uk Facebook Page – www.facebook.com/findthekeyslt Email – findthekeyslt@hotmail.com Twitter – @FindthekeySLT
For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://www.thesendcast.com/sendcast-episodes/ | |||
| 01 Dec 2022 | Boost Reading and Writing Through Play with Georgina Durrant | 01:05:06 | |
Reading and writing are areas that many teachers and parents are concerned that children need to ‘catch up’ on due to the pandemic. But what about play?
In this week’s podcast, Georgina Durrant joins Dale to discuss ‘Boosting Reading and Writing Through Play’. Georgina is acutely aware of the impact the pandemic has had on children’s emotional wellbeing and time to play with others, so we need to find a way to boost children’s literacy skills whilst focusing on nurturing play skills and emotional wellbeing.
“Just stepping away from your traditional views of how you think, reading and writing should be done and making it more accessible for the kids.”
Georgina Durrant
Play makes learning fun, memorable, motivating and builds confidence. Listen to this episode to understand:
About Georgina Durrant
Georgina Durrant is a former teacher/Special Educational Needs Coordinator and is now Director of Cheshire SEN Tutor LTD. She is also a mum of 2. Georgina runs the award-winning site The SEN Resources Blog - www.senresourcesblog.com, which provides learning activities, recommendations, resources and advice for parents and teachers of children with Special Educational Needs. Twinkl Resouces awarded the site as one of their Top Ten SEN Blogs in 2019. Georgina is author of '100 Ways your Child Can Learn Through Play (Fun Activities for Young Children with SEN)'.
Contact Georgina
Website - www.senresourcesblog.com and www.cheshiresentutor.com
Twitter - @senresourceblog
Facebook - www.facebook.com/senresourcesblog and www.facebook.com/groups/3463317840363473
Email - cheshiresentutor@gmail.com
Useful Links
How to Boost Reading and Writing Through Play https://amzn.to/38ZKbH0
100 Ways Your Child Can Learn Through Play (my first book) https://amzn.to/302NJAx
Georgina's podcast ‘SEND in the experts with Georgina Durrant’ https://redcircle.com/shows/send-in-theexperts-with-georgina-durrant | |||
| 18 Feb 2025 | nasen awards - Karen McGuigan, Highly commended Resource for SEND | 00:44:21 | |
In this special podcast episode, Karen McGuigan discusses her work with the ‘Maths for Life’ program, which was highly commended in the resource for SEND category by nasen. Karen explains that ‘Maths for Life’ is designed to help students build foundational mathematical skills, particularly for those who struggle with the national curriculum. Karen emphasises the program's focus on practical applications of maths, making it relevant to everyday life, rather than abstract concepts. She contrasts ‘Maths for Life’ with mainstream programs like White Rose Maths, noting that it is tailored for students who face challenges in traditional education settings. The program aims to fill gaps in foundational knowledge and empower students to become confident in their maths skills. Throughout the conversation, Karen shares personal anecdotes about her son with learning difficulties and discusses the importance of financial literacy and real-world applications of maths. She advocates for a more inclusive and relevant math curriculum that meets the diverse needs of all students. The episode highlights the positive impact of ‘Maths for Life’ on students' attitudes toward maths, with many expressing newfound enthusiasm for the subject. Karen concludes by expressing her commitment to changing educational practices to ensure every child can succeed in maths.
About KarenKaren McGuigan is an education consultant with a goal to improve the image and attainment levels in maths for everyone. She studied maths at a degree level as part of her Masters in Chemical Engineering at Imperial College and brings a wealth of real life experience to her work. Inspired by her middle son Lance, who has Down syndrome, she has developed the Maths For Life programme. It is a differentiated approach to teaching maths that is designed for students with additional learning needs, for whom the standard maths national curriculum structure and timescale is unattainable. It is currently being used both in schools and homes across the globe with students ranging from aged 2 to 60.
About the nasen awardsThe nasen awards celebrate outstanding contributions to the education and support of children and young people with SEND. These annual awards recognise individuals, schools, and organisations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive education and the advancement of SEND practices. nasen is a charitable organisation that supports children and young people with SEND. nasen's goals include Influencing government policy, providing information, training and resources to support practitioners and contributing to the debate and effecting change to improve outcomes for children and young people.
Contact Karenhttps://www.facebook.com/mathsforlifeprogramme/
Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school.
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| 27 Mar 2025 | Relationship Dynamics with Children with PDA with Beth Elkins & Ian Thorsteinsson | 01:09:55 | |
I am delighted to share the latest episode of our podcast, where Beth Elkins and Ian Thorsteinsson from Gretton School join Dale to explore the relationship dynamics with children who have Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Beth is a parent to a young man with PDA and brings a unique perspective that combines both personal and professional insights. Her candid reflections on the highs and lows of parenting a child with PDA provide emotional support and encouragement, showing other parents that it can get easier with a shift in thinking and communication. Beth and Ian explore various aspects of parenting children with PDA, sharing personal experiences, professional insights, and practical advice that can make a significant difference for parents, teachers and children. They discuss:
View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop!
About Beth ElkinsBeth Elkins has worked in SEN for more than 25 years with a breadth of experience of working with learners with unique learning profiles and a need for education to be different. A parent of a young man with PDA, Beth’s passion for specialist education runs through both her personal and professional life, with the aim of making a positive difference in the lives of as many young people as possible.
About Ian ThorsteinssonIan Thorsteinsson joined the Cavendish Group in August 2018. He has a long senior management history in specialist education, particularly in autism schools and services. He has even opened a school for autism in Saudi Arabia. He is passionate about delivering a strong, effective and well resourced provision, which is planned individually, to ensure the best short- through to long-term outcomes.
Contact Beth & Ianhttps://www.facebook.com/grettonschool https://www.instagram.com/grettonschool/
Useful LinksWhat's it like to be an autistic headteacher of autistic children?
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 15 Sep 2022 | Choosing a School with Sarah Billingham | 01:13:01 | |
School applications are fast approaching so here’s a podcast to help parents and carers choose the right school for their child.
Choosing schools can be an overwhelming and emotional time for parents/carers and they might not be sure what to look for or how to compare the pros and cons of different settings. Sometimes the general information shared at open mornings / on school tours does not feel personalised enough to help them to understand if the school might be able to support their child’s additional needs.
Sarah Billingham joins Dale for this week’s episode ‘Choosing a school’ where we discuss things that need to be taken into consideration and questions to ask when visiting schools. Sarah provides some fantastic advice to help parents/carers make the right decision, at the right time for their children.
About Sarah Billingham
Sarah Billingham is a specialist teacher, she runs Confident Kids, a unique Early Years service. She equips parents, carers and practitioners with expert knowledge and the practical tools they need to offer their little people the very best communication support they can.
Sarah has been working with children with speech and language needs for over 16 years in mainstream and specialist settings.
Sarah has recently decided to focus on Confident Kids full time. She most recently ran a multi-disciplinary assessment centre for children with SLCN in the charity sector. In 2020 & 2021 she ran an online focus week for parents and practitioners sharing videos on supporting young children transitioning into school (or back into school following lockdown).
Contact Sarah Billingham
Website - www.TheSensoryProjects.co.uk
Email - www.confidentkids.co
Facebook - www.facebook.com/confidentkids.co
Useful Links
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| 11 Mar 2021 | Supporting NQTs with SEND | 00:49:59 | |
In this episode Dale is joined by Natalie Packer to talk about how to support NQTs to meet the needs of pupils with SEND. With very little Initial Teacher Training around SEND, they have a lot to learn in supporting pupils with SEND. Yet, they will be supporting pupils with SEND from their first day of teaching. Schools need to provide support and training. This is a special episode, it is our first birthday! We are a year old!!! I would like to thank everyone who has been involved with the SENDCast, all our guests and our team who produce the podcast, manage the social media and help make this podcast happen. And finally, thank you to all of you, our listeners. In a year we have had over 30,000 listens!! This is abosultely phenomenal and all the feeback we have received has been amazing and it is great seeing it shared on social media so thank you everyone! Useful Links: Effective SEND practice in ITT - https://www.sendgateway.org.uk/whole-school-send/send-research/ Teachers’ Standards: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/teachers-standards Early careers framework - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/773705/Early-Career_Framework.pdf SEND induction checklist - Natalie Packer (to send) SEN Support and the graduated approach nasen mini guide: https://www.sendgateway.org.uk/r/sen-support-and-the-graduated-approach-nasen-miniguide.html Special Educational Needs in mainstream schools, EEF guidance report - https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/tools/guidance-reports/special-educational-needs-disabilities/ SEN Support: Research evidence …document by DfE: https://www.sendgateway.org.uk/r/sen-support-research-evidence-on-effective-approaches-and-examples-of-current-practice-in-good-and-outstanding-schools-and-colleges.html My book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Teachers-Guide-SEN-Natalie-Packer/dp/1785830252 Focus On training for staff available at www.nasen.org SEND Reflection framework - https://www.sendgateway.org.uk/send-review/ SEND videos for NQTs (coming soon) – will be available at https://www.sendgateway.org.uk/whole-school-send/find-wss-resources.html
Contact Natalie Packer
Website – www.nataliepacker.co.uk
Email – n.packer174@btinternet.com
Twitter – @NataliePacker
For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://www.thesendcast.com/sendcast-episodes/ | |||
| 06 Apr 2023 | How To Help Pupils Understand and Express How They Feel with Sue White | 00:50:39 | |
Children are needing more support than ever with their language skills. The Education Endowment Foundation reported a staggering 76% of primary schools said pupils starting school in September 2020 needed more support with communication than in previous years. Coupled with an increase in pupil anxiety, 95% of schools have seen an increase in pupil anxiety since the start of the school year. Anyone supporting young people will want to find ways to help them express their feelings. In this week’s episode ‘How to help pupils understand and express how they feel’, Sue White, Senior Educational Specialist, joins Dale to discuss:
Listen to hear how you can use symbols to support your pupils to understand and express how they feel. About Sue WhiteA qualified primary teacher, Sue’s passion for building children’s vocabulary came after teaching a child with specific learning difficulties. Sue could see that the child’s behaviour in class was borne from a frustration of not being able to fully participate in lessons. Determined to help, Sue started a long journey of learning how to help children who process learning differently. She first became a SENCo and later specialised in a range of developmental disorders where lack of vocabulary development impacted on attainment. Sue discovered that symbols – visual representations of words – can help all children comprehend spoken and written text, communicate better, as well as build confidence, independence and vocabulary. She has been with Widgit since 2018 where she has advised hundreds of schools on how to use symbols to improve learning and support delayed language development. Contact SueWebsite – www.widgit.com Email – Sue@widgit.com Twitter - @Widgit_Software Instagram – @widgitsoftware Facebook - @widgitsoftware26 Useful LinksSue recently co-authored a report: Walking the talk: A vocabulary recovery plan for primary schools. 30 day free trial of Widgit Symbols software to helps schools improve children’s language and literacy skills https://www.widgit.com/language
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| 07 Oct 2021 | Connecting and Communicating with students with autism with Tessa Morton | 00:59:12 | |
In this week’s podcast, Dale Pickles from B Squared is joined by Tessa Morton, one of the founders of Act for Autism, to discuss an approach she uses to help you connect and communicate with your autistic students. Tessa is the passionate mum of an autistic boy, and before founding Act for Autism, she had spent over 15 years supporting autistic kids in her community through drama workshops. Tessa is a trained counsellor, and has been supporting parents of autistic kids, helping them to manage their emotions and anxieties.
Resources
Connecting and Communicating with Your Autistic Child
For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://sendcast.wpengine.com/sendcast-episodes/
Contact Tessa Morton:
Website: Act for Autism
Twitter: https://twitter.com/actforautism1 | |||
| 04 Dec 2023 | SENsible24 with Abigail Hawkins | 00:15:59 | |
SENsible24: Elevate Your SENCO Experience with a little bit of fun and learning Step into a world of inclusivity and collaboration at the first LIVE in-person event, "All in the Room". Inspired by the idea of meeting SEN needs within the classroom, this event brings together exhibitors, speakers, and SENCOs around the same tables. Join us for a day filled with engaging sessions, laughs and a few moments of realisation, led by experts in Special Educational Needs (SEN), where knowledge is shared and connections are made. From adaptive teaching strategies to tackling workload bureaucracy, we invite you to be part of this fun filled community day where everyone learns from each other, even Gavin...
Event Highlights: 📚 Practical Wisdom: Lots of stories and helpful tips from those that have been there and done that, not only that but the combined experience in the room will reach well over 1000 years! 🤝 Networking Extravaganza: Connect, collaborate, and get moving around the room, ohh you thought you were just coming to sit by people you already knew? Haha, think again, SENCOs meet other SENCOs as we get you engaging with each other like never before! 🛍️ Exhibitor Showcase: Every event has to have some well placed exhibitors, but these are just those throwing money at the event, going "I want to be there!" Every Exhibitor has been hand picked to attend and is linked to a talk, they might even be a little picked on, well they spend ages trying to get you to buy their stuff, so let's have a little fun! ☕ Free Nourishment: Nourishment? Who uses that? Free food, 200 people eating in a gourmet restaurant, just avoid Gavin he is all elbows and with that many people you can be assured something will go wrong, if it does we can open the Prosecco and just laugh about it! 🎟️ Limited Tickets: Super limited and we reallly have to sell all these to break even with the bank, running this kind of event isn't free, we have some discounts available for our website members (Plat/Plat plus), but we really can't do much more than that. Sorry! 🥳 Celebration: We will be recognising the work that SENCOs do, you work soo hard to make such a different and one random lucky or unlucky SENCO will be pulled up to the stage and given the award that represents the hard work of all SENCOs!
This is more than just a boring conference; it's an opportunity to grow, connect, and celebrate your role as a SENCO. Whether you're a seasoned SENCO or just starting your journey, SENsible24 is the place to be.
About Abigail HawkinsAbigail runs SENDCOSolutions, an SEN consultancy and SENsible SENCO CIC, a not-for-profit networking support group. She has been a SENCO for over 25 years and has taught a multitude of subjects across all phases from 2-year-olds to adults. She works with software companies developing supportive software for SEN and Safeguarding purposes, has developed and delivers on a teaching assistant apprenticeship programme, authored several books on SEN and exclusions and runs a support network for over 9000 SENCOs. Until recently, she was the Chair of Governors for 3 schools in the East Midlands and she still works as a SENCO for part of her week. Abigail has a no-nonsense, practical approach to SEN issues faced by schools. Abigail was one of the three lead voices on a series of SEN webinars delivered over the lockdowns amassing an audience of over 12000 viewers and she uses modern approaches to share SEN-related information including a successful YouTube channel. Contact AbigailWebsite – www.sendcosolutions.co.uk Email – enquiries@sendcosolutions.co.uk Twitter – @sendcosolutions Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sensiblesenco Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/SENsibleSENCO
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| 31 Oct 2024 | It's Not The What It's The Why! with Alison Knowles | 01:04:11 | |
Alison Knowles, Emotional Therapist, joins me today to discuss ‘it’s not the what, it’s the why’. Alison tells us that assumptions often arise when we focus solely on behaviour, leading to a lack of understanding. “Actually getting to the root of what's going on rather than focusing on the bit that isn't going to change.” Alison Knowles Alison emphasises that all behaviour serves a purpose, but merely focusing on the behaviour itself won't lead to real change. Instead, it’s essential to understand why individuals engage in certain behaviours. This approach shifts our focus from symptoms to the underlying emotions and motivations that drive those actions. She pointed out that children often resort to negative behaviours to gain attention, especially if they feel overlooked when they are behaving well. It's crucial for parents and caregivers to recognise this pattern and provide attention and validation in positive ways. Listen to this discussion to find out the importance of understanding emotional motivations behind behaviours and the necessity for effective communication and supportive parenting.
About Alison KnowlesAli is a practising emotional therapist, author of the Ollie and his Super Powers series of books, public speaker and creator of the Ollie Model. Ali’s strength is the unique way she views the world and her instinctive ability to empower you or your child to find the solutions from within. We recognise the uniqueness and individuality of every client we see. We know they don’t fit in boxes and that labels can be very generic. We don’t take months and months to help you move on, Ollie Coaches encourage you to take charge by empowering you with our skill sets so that you can make the changes that will make all the difference to make the difference at a pace that is right for you. We believe you have everything you need inside you. We show you how to access your immense knowledge and skills so that you can be in control of your emotions rather than being controlled by them. You can contact me if:
Ollie is currently active in the corporate world, schools, universities alternative provision, foster and adoption.
Contact Alisoninfo@ollieandhissuperpowers.com https://www.facebook.com/OllieandhisSuperPowers https://www.instagram.com/ollie_and_his_super_powers
Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 27 Jun 2024 | Zones of Regulation with Kim Griffin | 00:50:54 | |
When it comes to zones of regulation, often they’re not fully understood or correctly used in schools with the assumption that they are good or bad. Kim Griffin joins Dale today to shed light on this misconception! Green = good Red = bad In today’s podcast ‘Zones of regulation’, Kim provides clarity and insights on this important topic as she:
“At the end of the day, you're trying to support self-regulation and that is trying to support levels of arousal or alertness in the body.” Kim Griffin By understanding zones of regulation, we can better educate children on how to keep themselves safe and how to avoid triggers.
About Kim GriffinKim is an occupational therapist with 20 years experience supporting children, young people, their families and teachers to participate successfully in their daily lives. Her interest areas are sensory processing and autism. Kim provides online training for those who want to learn more about sensory processing, motor skills and handwriting along with programmes that show you have to help children improve their skills.
Contact Kimhttps://twitter.com/Griffin_OT
Want to hear more from Kim?A few weeks ago, Kim joined Dale live in our studio to present 2 CPD training sessions: Register your place now for just £10 per session which can be shared with your whole school.
Useful LinksAn alternative: Feel it Change it
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 10 Oct 2024 | Dyslexia Myth Busting with Louise Selby | 00:56:09 | |
This Dyslexia Awareness Week (7-13 October), we are excited to share our latest podcast episode featuring dyslexia specialist Louise Selby! We tackle some of the most common myths surrounding dyslexia, shedding light on the misunderstandings that persist in education and beyond. There’s a significant debate about whether dyslexia even exists, and it’s concerning that many educators and parents still lack a clear understanding of this condition. A shared understanding could lead to better support for students, ultimately focusing on providing high-quality teaching. In this episode, we debunk 10 Myths about Dyslexia, including:
Listen to this enlightening conversation that demystifies dyslexia and empowers educators and parents alike. Together, we can create a more supportive environment for all learners!
About Louise SelbyLouise worked as a specialist advisory teacher in Hertfordshire Local Authority for 11 years, where she gained extensive experience in training teaching assistants and SENCOs in meeting the needs of learners with specific learning difficulties. Before this, Louise worked as a class teacher and SENCO in the primary sector and also as a teacher of learners with English as an Additional Language. She now works freelance in advising, training and supporting schools as well as assessing for specific learning difficulties (dyslexia). Louise’s interest is in enabling and equipping staff in schools at grass roots level to meet learners’ needs. , and she is currently writing her next two books for the same publisher, called All About Dyslexia.
Contact Louisehttp://www.louiseselbydyslexia.com
Useful LinksVisual skills checklist, Dyslexia definitions & fact sheet
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 25 Jun 2020 | Effective Use of Questions to Extend Verbal Reasoning with Angharad Welch | 01:00:45 | |
In this week’s podcast Dale Pickles from B Squared is joined by Angharad Welch to discuss verbal reasoning and how to use questions to help extend these skills. Angharad Welch isa Speech and Language Therapist who runs Find the Key Speech and Language Therapy. Angharad has worked with a number of organisations including NASEN and ourselves at B Squared, she also speaks at various events. Verbal reasoning is understanding what has been said. Verbal reasoning is similar to comprehension, it is what phonology is to phonics. If a pupil is struggling to understand the world around them or make predictions, this will have a huge impact on their development. A pupil needs to be able to observe, then compare and then use expressive language. There is a lot going on, there is a lot to unpick and questions are key to this development. You can use questions to help support a pupils understanding, but not all questions are equal. Useful LinksBlank Questions – https://www.thesendcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Blank-Questions.jpg Contact Angharad WelchWebsite – www.findthekeyslt.co.uk Facebook Page – www.facebook.com/findthekeyslt Email – findthekeyslt@hotmail.com Twitter – @FindthekeySLT | |||
| 29 Dec 2022 | What Are Outcomes and Why Do They Matter? with Abigail Hawkins | 01:12:18 | |
In this last episode of 2022, Abigail Hawkins joins Dale to discuss ‘What are outcomes and why do they matter?’.
Abigail takes us through the 3 types of outcomes:
We’re all expected to know about mental health, self-care, importance of sleep, mindfulness, personal finances, nutrition, time management and much more but we’re not teaching children these things at school. Listen to this impassioned discussion about outcomes.
We will be bringing you more new content in 2023 with 52 episodes covering all the latest in SEND. Wishing you a Happy New Year!
About Abigail Hawkins
Abigail runs SENDCOSolutions, an SEN consultancy and SENsible SENCO CIC, a not-for-profit networking support group. She has been a SENCO for over 25 years and has taught a multitude of subjects across all phases from 2-year-olds to adults.
She works with software companies developing supportive software for SEN and Safeguarding purposes, has developed and delivers on a teaching assistant apprenticeship programme, authored several books on SEN and exclusions and runs a support network for over 9000 SENCOs.
Until recently, she was the Chair of Governors for 3 schools in the East Midlands and she still works as a SENCO for part of her week. Abigail has a no-nonsense, practical approach to SEN issues faced by schools.
Abigail was one of the three lead voices on a series of SEN webinars delivered over the lockdowns amassing an audience of over 12000 viewers and she uses modern approaches to share SEN-related information including a successful YouTube channel.
Contact Abigail Hawkins
Website - www.sendcosolutions.co.uk www.sensiblesenco.org.uk
Email - enquiries@sendcosolutions.co.uk
Twitter - @sendcosolutions
Facebook - Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sensiblesenco
Facebook - Page: https://www.facebook.com/SENsibleSENCO
Useful Links
Weekly SEN Network/CPD meetings for the SENsible SENCO community. Details available on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/sensible-senco-33587615959
Books:
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| 26 May 2022 | Evidence Based Decision Making with Gary Aubin | 01:20:22 | |
About Gary Aubin Gary Aubin is the SEND Content Specialist for the Educational Endowment Foundation and Director of SEND for a multi-academy trust, having worked as a SENDCO in mainstream primary and secondary schools. With a strong mindset of inclusion, his work as Director of SEND has supported schools out of Special Measures and towards Outstanding for their SEND provision. Alongside SEND duties, he has written The Lone SENDCO: questions and answers for the busy SENDCO and writes the SENDMatters.co.uk blog. He tweets @SENDMattersUK. He is a contributing author to Great Expectations by David Bartram OBE and wrote the Understanding the SENDCO role course for Guide Education. A former pastoral leader and still a practising secondary teacher, Gary completed his Masters in Special and Inclusive Education at the UCL Institute of Education. Useful Links Contact Twitter: @SENDMattersUK | |||
| 15 Oct 2020 | The Team, the Technology and the Teaching with Carol Allen & John Galloway | 01:10:24 | |
In this week's show Dale is joined by Carol Allen and John Galloway to discuss utilising modern technology to enhance the class room experience. Carol is an education advisor for ICT and Inclusion in particular supporting the London Grid For Learning and Hartlepool LA. She was named one of the top ten educators for 2018 in the field of educational technology. This was down to all her amazing work on inclusion. John is a specialist in the use of technology to improve educational opportunities for children and young people with special educational needs. He spends the majority of his time working with Tower Hamlets LA, but also does lots of working as a writer, consultant and trainer. Useful Links:
Carol Allen on Twitter - @caroljallen John Galloway on Twitter - @Johngalloway | |||
| 07 Apr 2025 | *Special Episode* Autism Europe International Congress 2025 | 00:24:26 | |
We are delighted to welcome the team behind Autism Congress on the SENDcast.In this special episode of the SENDcast, Dale Pickles discusses the upcoming Autism Europe International Congress 11-13th September in Dublin. The event team join Dale including Adam Harris, Peter Vermeulen and Zsuzsanna Szilvasy. They highlight that the Congress aims to create an inclusive space for autistic advocates, family members, and professionals to address common barriers faced by the autistic community. Now its 14th event, the theme this year is “quality of life” with discussions on topics ranging from mental health to advocacy - guided by a scientific committee featuring some of Europe's leading autism experts. The event emphasises co-creation, involving both autistic and non-autistic perspectives, and aims to provide practical takeaways for attendees. The Congress will utilise new translation technology to ensure accessibility for an international audience. The SENDcast is a proud media partner for the event and we will be exhibiting as B Squared - make sure you pop by to say hi!
Why attend?“The Congress aims to create a collaborative space for autistic advocates, family members, and professionals to address common barriers faced by the autistic community across Europe and beyond." - Adam Harris Register before 16th May to take advantage of the discounted early registration fee! https://autismcongress2025.org/registration/ About Adam HarrisAdam Harris is the Founder and CEO of AsIAm, Ireland's Autism Charity. Adam founded AsIAm based on his own experiences growing up as an Autistic person in Ireland. In addition to his leadership at AsIAm, Adam was appointed to the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission in July 2020 and serves as a Executive Council Member for Autism Europe. He is a Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Awardee and has sat on and advised many government consultative and policy committees on disability rights and inclusion, which have helped shape national policies for a more inclusive society. A passionate public speaker and advocate, Adam regularly contributes to media and conferences in Ireland and overseas, engaging with government and the public to promote greater understanding and acceptance of Autistic individuals. His work has positioned AsIAm as a cornerstone of autism advocacy in Ireland, driven by his belief that Ireland must become a country in which every Autistic person is accepted "as they are" - equal, valued and respected. Contact Adam Harrishttps://www.facebook.com/AsIAmIreland https://www.instagram.com/asiamireland?igsh=MTNhbDhsbWYzNWNuZA== About Zsuzsanna SzilvasyMs. Szilvasy has been involved in autism organisations, both on national (in Hungary) and at the international level, for the past fifteen years. She is the former president of the Autism Europe, led the association for 8 years. In these years she was working with WHO as an autism expert and promoted the right of autistic people all over the world, including in the UN. Zsuzsanna is also the former president of the Hungarian Autistic Society, she got this position for four years and has played a key role in advocating for the rights of people with autism in Hungary. During her presidency the state implemented a National Autism Strategy. Ms. Szilvasy is the founder & CEO of Mars Autism Foundation in Hungary. The Foundation is supporting families with autistic family member in many ways (trainings, advocacy, awareness raising materials and programmes). Contact Zsuzsanna Szilvasyhttps://www.facebook.com/autismeurope.AE/ https://www.instagram.com/autismeurope/ About Peter VermeulenDr. Peter Vermeulen, PhD in Psychology and Clinical Educational Sciences, has more than 35 years of experience in the field of autism. Founder of “Autism in Context”, where autism is understood in context. Peter is an internationally respected lecturer/trainer and he presents all over the world. Peter spoke at every Autism Europe Congress since 1992 (this year it will his 11th time speaking for AE). Peter wrote more than 20 books and several articles on autism, translated into more than 10 languages In 2019, Peter received the Passwerk Life Time Achievement Award for his more than 30 years contribution to the autism community in Belgium. Contact Peter Vermeulenhttps://www.facebook.com/autismincontext https://www.instagram.com/autismincontext?igsh=MXJqa21idXV0MDIxdg==
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 25 Feb 2021 | Self-harm - understanding and supporting our CYP with Tina Rae | 01:14:04 | |
On this week’s show Dale welcomes back Dr. Tina Rae. Tina is a consultant psychologist with over 30 year’s experience working with children, adults and families. Dale and Tina discuss self harm, how we can understand and support our children and young people. Self-harm is an area of concern for all of us who support CYP in order to foster well-being and mental health. There are many myths and general misunderstandings about this topic so it is essential given the current pandemic and increased levels of stress for our CYP that we all feel able to support them effectively.
Useful Links: Rae, T. (2014) Optimus Safeguarding Hub 19.9.14. Listening to children: What helps children to disclose? Rae, T. (2015) Optimus Safeguarding Hub 10.4.15 Supporting the well-being of the DSP for child protection: listening to traumatised children Rae, T. (2015) Optimus Teaching and Learning Hub 16.4.15 Helping pupils to manage stress Rae, T. (2016) Introducing the topic of self-harm in schools: developing an educational and preventative support intervention Education and Health. 34(2) Rae, T. & Hershey, G. (2019) Mental health and girls on the autism spectrum, in Carpenter, B., Happe, F. & Egerton, J. (eds) Girls and Autism Educational, Family and Personal perspectives. London: Routledge Rae, T. & Walshe, J. (2017) Understanding and Preventing Self-harm in schools Effective Strategies for Identifying Risk and Providing Support Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers Rae, T. & Giles, P. (2018) The Essential Guide to using cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) with children and young people Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers Rae, T., Bunn, H. &. Walshe, J. (2018) The Essential Guide to using Positive Psychology with children and young people Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers Rae, T., Such, A. & Wood, J. (2020) The Well Being Tool Kit for Mental health leads in schools A comprehensive Training Resource to Support Emotional Wellbeing in Education and Social Care Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers | |||
| 16 May 2024 | Your Senses and Your Mental Health with Joanna Grace | 01:01:33 | |
Did you know that there is a profound connection between our senses and mental health? Our senses can heighten the more stress we’re under, but they can also shut down as well. Smell alone can bring up strong feelings and emotions, for example, no one likes the smell of hospitals, but they love the smell of fresh bread. To explore this connection further, Dale invited Joanna Grace, Sensory Engagement and Inclusion Specialist, to join him to discuss ‘Your senses and your mental health’. Joanna highlights that when in a depressive mindset, you can withdraw from the world and restrict your access to sensation. As a result, our senses can become dulled, affecting our ability to fully enjoy activities like eating. She also emphasises the importance of our interoceptive sense, which allows us to sense our internal world, such as hunger and thirst, and how this differs for neurodivergent people which can in turn impact their wellbeing. Each individual's environment plays a significant role in shaping their sensory capacity, which in turn affects their ability to perceive and process emotions effectively. Listen to this thought-provoking perspective on the importance of curating environments that promote good mental health at a sensory level.
About Joanna GraceJoanna Grace is a sensory engagement and inclusion specialist, doctoral researcher, author, trainer, TEDx speaker and Founder of The Sensory Projects. Joanna has worked with people with learning disabilities and neurodivergent conditions aged from 0-100 (well 1 day old – 87 years old to be precise) in a range of settings and context. Through all she does Joanna is seeking to contribute to a future where people are understood in spite of their differences.
Contact Joannahttp://www.Facebook.com/JoannaGraceTSP
Useful LinksAutism:behaviour or neurotype? session with Jo Grace
· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 24 Oct 2024 | Alternative Provision with Veena Virahsammy | 00:59:56 | |
Alternative Provision (AP) can often look ‘fluffy’ from the outside, leading to misconceptions about its true purpose. To clarify and raise awareness, Veena Virahsammy joins me to give her insight on ‘Alternative Provision’. After her son faced exclusion from school, Veena established her own AP to support him and others in similar circumstances. In our conversation, she shares her experiences launching this initiative and emphasises the vital role that AP plays in education. “All I was fighting for was for my son to have a full-time education”. Veena Virahsammy Over the past two years Veena’s Alternative Provision has grown and she now works with 30 children in 28 schools. Listen to this podcast to understand:
Veena's insights shed light on the complexities surrounding alternative provision and the need for a collaborative approach to better support students. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding each child's unique circumstances and addressing unmet needs.
About Veena Virahsammy✨ Meet Veena: a former award-winning radio presenter and YouTube marketing consultant who pivoted her career to become a qualified clinical hypnotherapist. In 2022, after her son was unlawfully suspended from his mainstream secondary school, she founded Oxford Creators – an alternative education provision dedicated to empowering children aged 8-18 at risk of exclusion or not attending school due to anxiety, mental health challenges, or special educational needs. Veena passionately shares her journey and highlights the hidden struggles within the education system on her social media @mumtomillionaire, the name of her podcast. Join her mission to redefine the narrative for misunderstood children.
Contact Veena
Useful Links
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 12 Sep 2023 | The Tes SEND Show with Beverley Walters | 00:12:39 | |
Beverley joins Dale for this special episode highlighting what's on at this year's Tes SEND Show 13 - 14 October in London and why you should be there! "It's an absolutely fantastic place to network and there's so much to learn, so much to take advantage of and we've just packed so much into the programme." Beverley Walters Attending Tes SEND Show provides the opportunity for the entire school workforce to stay up to date with latest SEND issues, stay connected at a national level and find out the latest developments, policy updates such as the SENDAP Improvement Plan and how to implement them; to network with peers, exhibitors, speakers and to invest in their own CPD. Visitors can hear Michael Rosen read poems and present the winners of our poetry competition, as well as attend the Leadership Summit, Tes Editor’s Chats, free Keynotes at the start of each day, the innovative and entertaining SEND TeachMeet and inspirational Parent, Carer and Teacher Forum… to name just a few things happening in a jam-packed two day show. About BeverleyExhibition Director & Head of Content, Tes SEND Show. Beverley has over 20 years’ experience of organising and curating events for the education sector, focusing on special educational needs and disability (SEND). She is responsible for the Tes SEND Show’s content strategy and structure across all 42 seminars, parent and carer forum presentations, exhibition management and exhibitor workshops. Beverley is passionate about raising awareness of SEN and has a wealth of knowledge and experience of the SEN sector. As safeguarding Governor of a special SEMH school in the West Midlands, Beverley stays up to date with the latest policy and issues impacting front line staff and brings this knowledge and experience to Tes SEND Show. Useful Links· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe | |||
| 13 May 2021 | SENCO Survival Guide at this challenging time with Lorraine Petersen | 01:02:11 | |
Joining Dale today is Lorraine Petersen. Lorraine is an educational consultant with 25 years experience working in schools. Since 2004 she has been supporting Special Needs in a variety of ways: She was the CEO of NASEN and she is currently a consultant, director of a teaching school alliance and Governor. Being a SENCO now, more than ever is extremely challenging, so much to do with so little time and so few options. Today Dale and Lorraine discuss the SENCO Survival Guide to help you through these times. Just to be clear we are not going Bear Grylls.
Resources: National SENCO Workforce Survey 2020 - https://nasen.org.uk/news/senco-workforce-survey | |||
| 03 Oct 2024 | Autism: My Personal Experiences and Advice for Professionals with Joe Fautley | 00:59:14 | |
We're excited to announce that in this week’s episode of the SENDcast, we welcome Joe Fautley to share his invaluable insights in “Autism: My Personal Experiences and Advice for Professionals.” In this open and honest discussion, Joe offers a unique perspective as a young adult growing up and living on the Autism Spectrum. He shares his personal journey, highlighting the needs, strengths, achievements, challenges, and aspirations of children and young people with SEND. Joe's experience as an Autism advocate shapes his approach to making education more accessible and comfortable for students with autism. He currently works at the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) and plays a vital role as co-chair of the NCB Staff Disability and Neurodiversity Network, empowering colleagues with disabilities and neurodiversity. Joe highlights four important discussion points:
Joe shares practical tips across four key areas of difference: language use, flexible thinking, social interaction, and sensory processing—tools essential for supporting autistic students throughout their education. Join us for this enlightening conversation that aims to enhance understanding and support for autistic individuals in educational settings.
About Joe FautleyI’m an Autistic person who also has Dyspraxia and anxiety. Over many years, I have been involved in various projects which enable Autistic people to have a voice in decision making and make a positive impact on society. I’m passionate about raising awareness and understanding of Autism and wider neurodiversity. I’m passionate about using my voice and lived experiences to be a positive role model and help inspire and support others. For example, I use my platform on Twitter @JoeFautley to share my personal experiences and help spread awareness, acceptance and understanding of Autism across the wider SEND and education community. I have many years’ experiences of various advocacy and media work including featuring in videos, co-delivering national SEND training to hundreds of professionals across England and speaking at conferences.
Contact Joe
Useful LinksArticle for SEN Magazine (2024) Article for NASEN Connect Magazine (2023) Interview with SENDIASS North Yorkshire (2022) Joe's solo video published by the NHS (2021) Group video Joe is featured in published by the NHS (2021) Presentation from NASEN Live Conference (2021)
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 02 May 2024 | Parenting foster/adopted children with Alison Knowles | 01:05:51 | |
Let's begin by acknowledging a fundamental truth: there are no bad children. Each child exhibits behaviours as a means of survival within their unique environment. In the case of foster or adopted children, many have endured profoundly traumatic pasts, resulting in complex behavioural issues. However, at their core, they are children who, like any other child, simply need to feel loved, safe, and valued. In this week’s episode, Alison Knowles joins Dale to discuss ‘Parenting foster/adopted children’. We explore the specific challenges facing foster or adoption families including; transitions, attachment, the importance of establishing boundaries, and effectively dealing with challenging behaviours. Alison brings her wealth of expertise as an Emotional Therapist and real-life examples. Each child’s journey is unique, therefore it’s crucial that no assumptions are made. Alison highlights that a lot of the focus is on the foster or adopted child, however, there needs to be more support for the parents. These families need extensive guidance and resources to navigate the complexities of their roles and empower these parents to enable them to provide the best possible care. "You've got to try and find a way to reframe the fact that there isn't that biological bond, but there's a more powerful, beautiful one. This is quite magical; they found you." Alison Knowles
About Alison KnowlesAli is a practising emotional therapist, author of the Ollie and his Super Powers series of books, public speaker, NLP trainer and creator of the Ollie Model. Ali’s strength is the unique way she views the world and her instinctive ability to empower you or your child to find the solutions from within.
Contact Alihttps://twitter.com/bemoreollie https://www.facebook.com/OllieandhisSuperPowers http://www.ollieandhisuperpowers.com
Useful LinksYoutube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWDj-PRjboIg2cu-KZsEMVA Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ollie_and_his_super_powers
· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 18 Apr 2024 | The National SEND Picture with Simon Tanner | 01:20:03 | |
When it comes to the national SEND landscape, it's crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of what is happening across the country. Different schools and authorities often face unique challenges, and it's important to recognise the difference between struggles that are universal and those that are localised to specific schools. Having spent 6 years as a MAT SEND Leader, Simon Tanner joins Dale today bringing his expertise to discuss ‘The National SEND Picture’. During the conversation, Simon delves into the national issues affecting the SEND landscape, such as workload, funding, and recruitment. He offers advice and tips on collaborating and learning from other schools within your Local Authority, as well as scaling up successful initiatives. “There are pockets of outstanding practise out there and communities and people coming together to collaborate to get the best for the SEND needs of the people that they're working with. I think that's the bit that gives me, as a leader of SEND within my MAT, hope. And we've got that passion and I think it's, how many of us can now come together to work, to provide and push that agenda along more, because that voice is getting louder.” Simon Tanner Join us for this insightful discussion as we dive into the National SEND Picture to enhance our understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and potential solutions that lie ahead.
About Simon TannerSimon is National Director of SEND for E-ACT. With 10 years as an experienced SENDCo and 6 as a MAT leader for SEND, Simon has developed effective SEND practice across multiple MATs and lead on SEND and MAT SEND reviews across the country. Simon Co-chairs the MAT SEND Leaders group which he established with Dr Nicola Crossly (Liberty Trust). The group currently have over 100 MAT leaders of SEND and collaborate with Whole Education. Simon is a mentor on Whole Educations MAT SEND leaders programme which last year supported over 250 academies across England and is now moving into its second cohort. Simon regularly presents at National conferences and was part of EDUKEYs Provision map series in 2020-2021 and TEXTHELPs festivals of education between 2021-2023.
Contact Simonhttps://twitter.com/simontanner_sen
Useful Links· B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk · Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast · Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk · Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B SquaredWe have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school. | |||
| 23 Apr 2020 | Speech, Language and Communication Needs in the Early Years with Wendy Lee | 00:33:46 | |
In this week’s podcast Dale Pickles from B Squared is joined by Wendy Lee to discuss how schools can support pupils in Early Years settings with Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN). With many children are starting school with poor speech, language and communication skills, more needs to be done to support them. There is strong evidence around prevalence, with numbers rising to over 50% of all children in areas of social deprivation having poor language that impacts on wider development. The impact of poor understanding, limited vocabulary, poor sentence and narrative skills can have wide reaching and long-term impact, not just through primary education, but through secondary school and beyond. The early years is the first port of call for many of these children and early years teachers and practitioners can go some way to identifying needs and supporting language development.
Useful Links Education Endowment Fund (EEF) – Early Language Development https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/evidence-summaries/evidence-reviews/early-language/ Education Endowment Fund (EEF) – Preparing for Literacy https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/tools/guidance-reports/preparing-for-literacy/ The Communication Trust – Online CPD https://www.thecommunicationtrust.org.uk/projects/professional-development/online-short-course/ The Communication Trust - Supporting Children and Young People’s Speech, Language and Communication online training http://www.platform3online.org.uk/index.html The Communication Trust – Talking Point https://www.thecommunicationtrust.org.uk/projects/talking-point/ Lingo Speech – Products and resources to support SLCN https://www.lingospeech.co.uk/resources/ Early Intervention Foundation (EIF) – Language as a wellbeing indicator https://www.eif.org.uk/report/language-as-a-child-wellbeing-indicator
For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://www.thesendcast.com/sendcast-episodes/ | |||
| 26 Mar 2020 | BONUS: Corona - Life at Home - Supporting children with special needs | 01:26:52 | |
In this, our second Corona BONUS episode Dale Pickles, Managing Director of B Squared is joined by his guest Jane Friswell. Jane is one of the legends of the SEN World who has seen lots of good practice, but also bad practice. Jane support’s school and authorities to turn things around and provide the right support for students. Moving on from last week’s BONUS episode, this week are looking at what life will look like at home and how families can support their children during this time. In the last week, we have gone from a few pupils not being in school due to self-isolation to now under 5% of pupils in schools. With us being very close to a lockdown, nearly all families will be adjusting to children being at home instead of school. For parents of children with SEND, there can be lots of challenges. We are all a bit shell shocked, trying to work out what to do. Schools are providing lots of things to do and there are loads of resources, activities, online PE or dance sessions. There is lots going on to support children, but parents need to decide what is right for their child. The links mentioned will be added soon. | |||
| 02 Dec 2021 | Do You Need to be an Expert in Every Area of SEND? with Clare Ward and Dr Jamie Galpin | 01:09:37 | |
Over the next few years, over 25% of the school population is projected to be on the SEN register!
Teachers are under increasing pressure to be experts in multiple diagnoses, and many are feeling overwhelmed. This is unsustainable and this pressure can result in a retreat from inclusion, with an increasing number of children being positioned outside an ever-shrinking idea of a ‘mainstream child’.
Dale Pickles is joined by Clare Ward and Dr Jamie Galpin in this week’s podcast. Clare has worked in the world of SEN for the last 30 years in a variety of roles and Jamie also has a long career in SEN. They have both come along to discuss this burning question - how do you become an expert in every area of SEND? Is it even possible?
Resources:
The Anxiety Workbook for Supporting Teens Who Learn Differently – published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers 21st April 2021. | |||
| 11 Nov 2021 | He Doesn't Do That at School with Ginny Bootman | 00:48:47 | |
Joining Dale today is Ginny Bootman. Ginny is currently a SENCO of 2 Primary schools, but has been a teacher for a very long time (in her own words), a senior manager and headteacher. She has also found time to write articles for TES and speak at a number of events.
There is often a huge divide between how a child with additional needs presents themselves at school compared to how they are at home. This discussion looks at this ‘seesaw’ situation. Too often there is a breakdown of communications between home and school as the child is presenting themselves so differently in these different environments.
Resources:
Alis Rowe - The girl with the curly hair - Aspergers and Me.
Emma Kendall - Helping you to identify and understand autism masking
Dr Andrew Curran - The Little Book of Big Stuff About the Brain
Contact Ginny Bootman
Website – www.ginnybootman.com
Twitter – @sencogirl | |||
| 23 Jul 2020 | CPD For Inclusion with Carol Allen & John Galloway | 01:21:14 | |
In this week’s podcast Dale Pickles from B Squared is joined by Carol Allen and John Galloway to discuss CPD for Inclusion. Apart from this obviously amazing podcast, we are discussing where can teachers go to access the information and support they need in order to improve their inclusive practice.
Carol is an education advisor for ICT and Inclusion in particular supporting the London Grid For Learning and Hartlepool LA. She was named one of the top ten educators for 2018 in the field of educational technology. This was down to all her amazing work on inclusion. John is a specialist in the use of technology to improve educational opportunities for children and young people with special educational needs. He spends the majority of his time working with Tower Hamlets LA, but also does lots of working as a writer, consultant and trainer.
Teaching is one of the professions that is always changing and there is always a need to continue to learn and develop. As well as CPD directed by schools, many teachers will find their own ways to learn and keep up to date with the latest changes and information. There needs to be a lot more CPD around SEND for all teachers, not just for SENCOs and those working in special schools. With pressures on time and money, it is not easy to achieve. In the podcast we discuss ways teachers can access CPD around SEND, including informal training like Teachmeets. We also discuss the impact COVID will have on CPD going forward and how schools will need to adapt. Useful Links
TES SEN Show - https://www.tessenshow.co.uk/
Training for Education - https://www.trainingforeducation.com/
Teachmeets - http://teachmeet.pbworks.com/w/page/19975349/FrontPage
To TeachMeet or not? - https://thirdspacelearning.com/blog/teachmeet-not-teachmeet-networking-essential-good-teaching-practice/ Carol Allen on Twitter - @caroljallen John Galloway on Twitter - @Johngalloway | |||
| 20 May 2021 | Tips for singing with children - using music inclusively across the curriculum with Al Start | 00:55:42 | |
This week Dale is joined by Al Start to discuss some helpful tips to help teachers use music and songs in the classroom. Al has worked with children for over 20 years in a variety of ways and over the last 15 years she has been creating, teaching and performing songs for children. Singing with children can be a scary idea if you’re not musically trained, but introducing music and singing into children’s daily learning routine will open up so many opportunities for learning, creativity, behaviour management and wellbeing. With some handy tips, anyone can use singing and music without a musical background. There isn’t enough support for teachers to try music in the classroom - but the benefits are plentiful - for both pupils and staff. Music is always way down on the curriculum and thought of as a specialist subject. However it should fill your classroom throughout the day, whatever subject you’re teaching.
Resources: Go Kids Music – https://gokidmusic.com/ Where you can find songs and albums, songbooks and membership Sing Up - https://www.singup.org/
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| 27 Jan 2022 | Talking to Parents about SEN with Sarah-Jane Critchley | 01:28:45 | |
In this week’s podcast Dale Pickles from B Squared is joined by Sarah Jane Critchley.
Sarah-Jane was previously the Programme Manager for over 10 years at the Autism Education Trust. Pupils with autism often struggle with attending school for a number of reasons. Her daughter Beth is autistic and also suffers from migraines which meant from Year 3 onwards she missed a lot of school and missed over 50% of her GCSE classes, eventually dropping out of school in year 12.
Useful Links
How to contact Sarah-Jane:
Twitter: @SarahJaneCritch
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sarahjanecritchley/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/differentjoy/
For more podcast episodes from the SENDcast click below… https://sendcast.wpengine.com/sendcast-episodes/ | |||
| 08 Jun 2023 | Tourette's in the Education System with Lucy Toghill | 00:48:40 | |
We released a great introduction to Tourette’s a few weeks ago with Ione, but what impact does having Tourette Syndrome (TS) have within a school? There are still huge amounts of misconceptions out there about TS and a general lack of awareness of the condition. It’s really important to increase knowledge and understanding of TS so that students feel supported, understood and accepted in their educational provision. Lucy Toghill, Education Manager for Tourettes Action joins Dale in this episode to discuss ‘Tourette’s in the Education System’. We discuss how tics can manifest in school, the barriers to learning for students with TS and go through strategies to best support students with Tourette’s in an educational provision. “Every child is different. Triggers are a massive key to understanding how to support the children and avoid those triggers where possible.” Lucy Toghill About Lucy ToghillLucy is a Teacher by trade and has worked in both mainstream and SEN schools for over 20 years. She is also a Mum of two SEN children and has a son with TS.
Contact LucyWebsite – https://www.tourettes-action.org.uk/ Twitter – @tourettesaction Facebook – www.facebook.com/TourettesAction/ Email - lucy@tourettes-action.org.uk
Useful Linkshttps://www.tourettes-action.org.uk – support groups, free online training, resources, blogs and more. https://www.tourettes-action.org.uk/160-our-training-offer.html - Training Offer https://www.tourettes-action.org.uk/62-teachers.html - For Teachers https://www.tourettes-action.org.uk/151-tourettes-awareness-2023.html - Tourette's Awareness
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| 19 Nov 2020 | Understanding and Managing Anxiety with Tina Rae | 01:09:16 | |
On this week’s podcast we will be discussing understanding and managing anxiety in children and young people with guest Dr Tina Rae. Tina is a consultant psychologist with over 30 year’s experience working with children, adults and families. A recent survey undertaken by the charity Young Minds in March 2020 revealed that the current coronavirus pandemic is having a profound effect on young people with existing mental health conditions. Although they understood the need for the measures taken in response to the virus, the report says, this did not lessen the impact. Many of those who took part in the survey reported increased anxiety, problems with sleep, panic attacks or more frequent urges to self-harm.
Resources and Useful Links: Rae, T. (2020) A Toolbox of Wellbeing Helpful strategies and activities for children, teens, their carers and teachers Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers Rae, T., Such, A. & Wood, J. (2020) The Well Being Tool Kit for Mental health leads in schools A comprehensive Training Resource to Support Emotional Wellbeing in Education and Social Care Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers Rae, T., Walshe, J. & Wood, J. (2020) Supporting Adolescents with anxiety and stress: Evidence based strategies Buckingham Hinton House Publishers Rae, T. (2020) Motivation Matters Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers Rae, T. (2019) Sensory Activity cards Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers Rae, T. (2019) Mindfulness Activity cards Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers Rae, T. (2019) Happy Habits Activity cards Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers Rae, T. & Such, A. (2019) The ASD Girls’ Wellbeing Toolkit An Evidence based Intervention Promoting Mental, Physical & Emotional Health Buckingham: Hinton House Publishers Rae, T. (2019) The Well Being Tool Kit for Teens London: NurtureUK
Anxiety UK 03444 775 774 (helpline) Childline 0800 1111
As well as this podcast, B squared also run the Virtual SEND Conference and Parent Talks. The Virtual SEND Conference is a conference for schools that runs twice a year. It is a virtual conference, so the conference comes to you, over the internet. We record every session, this means you can watch the videos whenever you need to. You can purchase access to future or past events. For more information visit www.virtualsendconference.com. At the end of the episode I will be giving you a discount code so you can save some money when you purchase access. | |||