The SEND Network Podcast

In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Juliet and Sophie from Speech & Language Link to discuss how to build universal communication support in schools.  About Sophie Sophie is a Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist at Speech & Language Link, with a career dedicated to supporting schools and early years providers across both mainstream and specialist settings. Her work focuses on helping educators confidently identify and support children with speech, language and communication needs, ensuring every child can access learning and thrive.  About Juliet Juliet is senior creative speech and language therapist at Speech & Language Link. With over 25 years experience, she combines research and innovation with a strategic clinical role in independent SEMH and mainstream schools. About Speech & Language Link This episode is sponsored by Speech & Language Link. Speech & Language Link work with schools, MATs, LAs and NHS speech and language therapy teams to help support children with speech, language and communication needs in school, whether that’s through screening tools, intervention materials, guidance, training and support from a therapist-backed help desk.  Check out their SEND Network profile, including all their content, here. You can find Speech & Language Link intervention tools and packages here. The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the  Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Dr. Sarah Moseley to discuss inclusive writing and assistive technology, the topic of Sarah's upcoming book.  Sarah and Georgie discuss:  What is inclusive writing and what role does it play in the mainstream classroom?  How can practitioners support agency and expression? How can assistive technology support writing skills?  About Dr. Sarah Moseley Sarah provides face-to-face and online training, coaching, consultancy, and keynote presentations for professionals and families across all sectors. With over 30 years’ experience in both special and mainstream education, from teaching assistant to Headteacher, she specialises in removing barriers to learning and improving outcomes for all children and young people. Her work bridges research and practice, creating inclusive cultures where high expectations and accessibility go hand in hand. She holds a Master’s and PhD in Special Education, with a focus on reading and self-esteem, and is the author of Teaching Reading to All Learners Including Those with Complex Needs.  She is currently writing her next book, Writing for All, which explores inclusive and adaptive approaches to teaching writing. Passionate about equity in education, she believes every action, no matter how small, can make a difference. You can find out more here. The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

In this special edition of the SEND Network Podcast, recorded at the Tes SEND Show, we speak with a range of speakers, exhibitors, and guests to capture their insights, experiences, and reflections from across the event. From classroom innovation to inclusive practice and whole-school approaches, this episode brings together voices from across the SEND community sharing what inspired them at this year’s show. Featuring: 00:43 - Dr. Asha Patel, Clinical Psychologist & CEO, Innovating Minds 02:16 - Tom Rees, Chief Executive of Ormiston Academies Trust and Strategic Advisor, SEND, DfE 03:05 - Dame Christine Lenehan, Strategic Advisor, SEND, DfE 03:45 - Dr Becky Baxter, Director of Education and Speech and Language Therapy, Down Syndrome UK 05:10 - Maria Taylor, International Director of Training 06:42 - Richard Lightfoot, Assistant Head Teacher 08:11 -  Linda Francis, Head Teacher 09:29 - Stuart Plumridge, Nessy 13:30 - Cheryl Warren, Aperion Training 16:54 - Kirsty Maidment, AQA 18:43 - Lee Blemings, Guru Ltd

In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Elizabeth Cordle to discuss the importance of neuromotor development in early education. This is part two of a two part series.  Elizabeth and Georgie discuss:  The importance of motor maturity Factors which might cause slower neuromotor development in the early years Neuromotor development and SEND About Elizabeth Cordle  Elizabeth Cordle is the founder of Corefulness and a Chartered Physiotherapist.  Over many years her work has been wonderfully varied but her main focus has been on rehabilitation which encompasses identifying the root causes of problems and providing solutions. You can find out about Corefulness here. The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Elizabeth Cordle to discuss the importance of neuromotor development in early education. This is part one of a two part series.  Elizabeth and Georgie discuss:  The importance of motor maturity Factors which might cause slower neuromotor development in the early years Neuromotor development and SEND About Elizabeth Cordle  Elizabeth Cordle is the founder of Corefulness and a Chartered Physiotherapist.  Over many years her work has been wonderfully varied but her main focus has been on rehabilitation which encompasses identifying the root causes of problems and providing solutions. You can find out about Corefulness here. The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Manny Awoyelu to discuss the importance of a whole school approach to support oral communication. Manny and Georgie discuss how: Oral Communication is the forgotten discipline after Reading, Writing & Mathematical skills. Oral communication deepens learning in the classroom Oral Communication is tied to self-advocacy - without language and oral communication skills, we are not truly preparing children to leave their stamp on the world. About Manny Manny is former Assistant Head Teacher from the UK, now adventuring in the UAE as an Inclusion Specialist. Manny is an passionate education advocate, speaker and writer.  Contact Manny here. The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

The SEND Network Podcast is back for Season 8 to kick off the new academic year! And we're bringing you a new host, the brilliant Georgie Green.  In this opening episode, Georgie is joined by Angela Lydon, former PMLD teacher and now National Manager for the Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Programme.  This episode covers:  The importance of movement as a priority for children and young people with complex needs  How to incorporate physical activity into the daily routine Access to high quality PE for all students About Angela Angela was previously a PMLD teacher with 23 yrs experience in the classroom, and is now the National Manager for the Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Programme.  Contact Angela via LinkedIn here. The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

In this episode of the SEND Network Podcast, guest host Georgie Green is joined by Speech and Language Therapist, Kate Freeman. They discuss the importance of early intervention to support children with speech, language and communication needs. The key areas covered are:  Signs to look out for to identify SLCN What does 'early' really mean?  What intervention might look like in the classroom Key tips to ensure successful interventions About Kate Kate is a highly experienced and driven speech and language therapist, author and consultant working with Speech & Language Link and other organisations. About Speech & Language Link This episode is sponsored by Speech & Language Link. Speech & Language Link work with schools, MATs, LAs and NHS speech and language therapy teams to help support children with speech, language and communication needs in school, whether that’s through screening tools, intervention materials, guidance, training and support from a therapist-backed help desk.  Check out their SEND Network profile, including all their content, here. You can find Speech & Language Link intervention tools and packages here. The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the  Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

This week’s episode of the SEND Network Podcast is a special collaboration with the SEND Parenting Podcast. Izzy joins Dr Olivia Kessel and Lynn How to discuss bridging the gap between parents and professionals. They discuss: Why parents and professionals sometimes struggle to connect  Success stories when communication goes right And the “magic formula” for parent-professional collaboration About Olivia and Lynn Olivia is a neurodiverse advocate, medical doctor, and the founder and host of the SEND Parenting Podcast, a platform dedicated to supporting parents raising neurodiverse children. To listen to other episodes of the SEND Parenting Podcast, visit sendparenting.com  Lynn is an educational consultant and SENCO with over 20 years of primary and SLT teaching experience. She has recently released Starting Out as a Primary School SENCO, which you can find here. Check out Lynn’s website too www.positiveyoungmind.com  The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the  Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast    New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

Are you trying to figure out how to make better use of technology in your setting? For this episode, Izzy is joined by Stephanie Smith to discuss using assistive technology effectively. There’s an array of ways it can benefit your setting including: Breaking down physical barriers,  Engaging students in learning Supporting SEMH On top of exploring the benefits, Stephanie also provides some budget-friendly ways you can include technology in your school.  About Stephanie: Stephanie Smith has over ten years of experience working in and alongside the autism community across mainstream and special schools. She is Head of School at The Cavendish School, Cambridgeshire’s first state-maintained special autism school.  Academy 21  This episode is sponsored by Academy21, the UK’s leading online, DfE-accredited, alternative provision experts. Working with schools, local authorities and multi-academy trusts, they help students, through live teaching to build confidence, re-engage and progress in their education. Academy21 works in partnership with schools and other institutions to support students who are struggling with attendance for whatever reason, providing a bridge towards reintegration. Find out more about Academy21 by heading to their website, academy21.co.uk , or follow them on the SEND Network! The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the  Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

We’re back for another season of the SEND Network Podcast! To kick things off for our seventh series, Izzy is joined by early years specialists Kerry Murphy and David Cahn.  They discuss neurodiverse play, exploring: Kerry’s A–Z of Neurodiverse Play David’s work as a neurodiversity-affirming childminder How we can decolonise play in early years settings Resources Respecting neurodivergent play: what does it look like? Implicit bias may help explain high preschool expulsion rates for black children Want to hear more about neurodivergent play? Listen to our episode with Simon Airey! - Valuing and developing neurodivergent play with Simon Airey About Kerry and David Kerry Murphy is an early years specialist with over 20 years of experience. She has worked across schools, local authorities, and now lectures at Goldsmiths University. David Cahn is an early childhood educator with experience across a range of settings. Two years ago, he and his wife launched a childminding service that champions neuroaffirming practice. Academy 21  This episode is sponsored by Academy21, the UK’s leading online, DfE-accredited, alternative provision experts. Working with schools, local authorities and multi-academy trusts, they help students, through live teaching to build confidence, re-engage and progress in their education. Academy21 works in partnership with schools and other institutions to support students who are struggling with attendance for whatever reason, providing a bridge towards reintegration. Find out more about Academy21 by heading to their website, academy21.co.uk , or follow them on the SEND Network! The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the  Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

In recognition of World Down Syndrome Day last week (21 March 2025), Sharon Smith returns to the podcast to discuss how to best support young people with Down’s Syndrome transition into adulthood.  In the episode, we cover:  Supporting students find their voice Bridging the gap between education and employment And, importantly, supporting parents to ‘let go’ About Sharon Smith Sharon is a PHD student, Education Advisor and mum to a 20-year-old daughter with Down’s syndrome. As a result, she has been engaged in the SEND system for over 15 years as a parent carer, and now works for the Down’s Syndrome Association. Contact Sharon Check out here SEND Network profile Email: sharonsmith@sharonsmith.net Academy 21 This episode is sponsored by Academy21, the UK’s leading online, DfE-accredited, alternative provision experts. Working with schools, local authorities and multi-academy trusts, they help students, through live teaching to build confidence, re-engage and progress in their education. Academy21 works in partnership with schools and other institutions to support students who are struggling with attendance for whatever reason, providing a bridge towards reintegration. Find out more about Academy21 by heading to their website, academy21.co.uk , or follow them on the SEND Network! The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the  Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

Hester joins Izzy for another episode on MSI (otherwise known as Deafblindness). In this episode, they look at MSI and wellbeing – looking at expressive communication, emotional and social wellbeing and acknowledging the impact MSI has on a child.  Resources Are you fun, funny and laughing? The friendships and social relationships of students with complex communication needs in and outside of special school settings - research paper by Hui Jun Ho, Leda Kamenopoulou & Cynthia Pinto Royal Society for Blind Children's resource page for professionals  Habilitation training for children at Guide Dogs UK About Hester Hester is a former specialist teacher for visual and multi-sensory impairment turned lecturer for the University of Birmingham’s Department of Inclusion and Special Needs, delivering their programme for Education of children with Multi-Sensory Impairments.  Academy 21 This episode is sponsored by Academy21, the UK’s leading online, DfE-accredited, alternative provision experts. Working with schools, local authorities and multi-academy trusts, they help students, through live teaching to build confidence, re-engage and progress in their education. Academy21 works in partnership with schools and other institutions to support students who are struggling with attendance for whatever reason, providing a bridge towards reintegration. Find out more about Academy21 by heading to their website, academy21.co.uk , or follow them on the SEND Network! The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

This month, the SEND Network podcast attended the first ever edition of the Tes SEND Show North! Izzy caught up with speakers and exhibitors on the day to find out more about what they do.  Thanks to all the speakers and exhibitors that spoke to us (in order of appearance): Craig Henderson (The Neurodivergent Barber) Lynn McCann (Autism, ADHD and PDA Specialist Teacher - Reachout) Alessandro Capozzi (Academy 21 - our series sponsor!) Rob Jennings (The Dyscalculia Network) Academy 21 This episode is sponsored by Academy21, the UK’s leading online, DfE-accredited, alternative provision experts. Working with schools, local authorities and multi-academy trusts, they help students, through live teaching to build confidence, re-engage and progress in their education. Academy21 works in partnership with schools and other institutions to support students who are struggling with attendance for whatever reason, providing a bridge towards reintegration. Find out more about Academy21 by heading to their website, academy21.co.uk , or follow them on the SEND Network! The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

Educational consultant Lynn How joins Izzy to talk all things SENCO paperwork, including EHCP paperwork. The episode splits into two parts - streamlining paperwork and EHCPs. Lynn shines a light on: Using the graduated approach to provide the right provision The process of applying for an EHC needs assessment Who is responsible for carrying out key steps in the EHCP process Resources Lynn’s SEND Paperwork Overview (from her webiste Positive Young Minds) Children and Families Act 2014  About Lynn Lynn is an educational consultant and SENCO with over 20 years of primary and SLT teaching experience. She has recently released Starting Out as a Primary School SENCO, which you can find here. Academy 21 This episode is sponsored by Academy21, the UK’s leading online, DfE-accredited, alternative provision experts. Working with schools, local authorities and multi-academy trusts, they help students, through live teaching to build confidence, re-engage and progress in their education. Academy21 works in partnership with schools and other institutions to support students who are struggling with attendance for whatever reason, providing a bridge towards reintegration. Find out more about Academy21 by heading to their website, academy21.co.uk , or follow them on the SEND Network! The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

In this episode of the SEND Network Podcast, Izzy is joined by Amy Husband, Head of School Academic at Academy 21 (our season six sponsor!) Amy introduces the three-tier approach, with a focus on tier three provision, and looks at the benefits of online learning. Resources Tiers before tears: The three-tier model of intervention - Amy Husband Academy 21's latest blog post on the SEND Network: Breaking barriers to inclusive education with digital solutions About Amy Amy is the Head of School Academic at Academy 21. With a wealth of experience in school leadership, alternative provision and SEND, and inclusive education, Amy is passionate about helping students thrive. Academy 21 This episode is sponsored by Academy21, the UK’s leading online, DfE-accredited, alternative provision experts. Working with schools, local authorities and multi-academy trusts, they help students, through live teaching to build confidence, re-engage and progress in their education. Academy21 works in partnership with schools and other institutions to support students who are struggling with attendance for whatever reason, providing a bridge towards reintegration. Find out more about Academy21 by heading to their website, academy21.co.uk , or follow them on the SEND Network! The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

With a new school term comes a new season of the SEND Network Podcast! In our first episode of 2025, Izzy Felton is joined by Simon Airey. Izzy and Simon discuss neurodivergent play, covering: Open-ended play  Allowing children to play their way  And using observations to plan play opportunities Simon also answers questions submitted by our SEND Network members! Listen to the end to hear what he has to say. If you would like to ask future guests questions, register for the SEND Network today. About Simon Simon currently works with children with SEND (whether that is diagnosed or undiagnosed), focusing on neurodivergent play in EYFS.  Contact Simon Email: simonairey4578@gmail.com Linkedin: Simon Airey Academy 21 This episode is sponsored by Academy21, the UK’s leading online, DfE-accredited, alternative provision experts. Working with schools, local authorities and multi-academy trusts, they help students, through live teaching to build confidence, re-engage and progress in their education. Academy21 works in partnership with schools and other institutions to support students who are struggling with attendance for whatever reason, providing a bridge towards reintegration. Find out more about Academy21 by heading to their website, academy21.co.uk  The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

In our final episode before the holidays, Izzy is joined by Jane Green MBE. They discuss emotional based school avoidance, and the link between neurodivergence and joint hypermobility conditions. Jane also answers questions submitted by our SEND Network members! Listen to the end to hear what she has to say. If you would like to ask future guests questions, register for the SEND Network today. Resources SEDSConnective is the foremost hypermobility neurodivergent charity dedicated to supporting individuals with hypermobility (EDS HSD) and neurodivergent conditions (Autism, ADHD, Dyspraxia, TS, Dyslexia, and more). Check out their research on their website www.sedsconnective.org Other research: Physical health challenges in neurodivergent children and young people Autism and mental health About Jane Jane is a former Assistant Headteacher, ex-national lead for autism, ADHD and dyspraxia, has worked in all phases of education and the founder and chair of the SEDSConnective. Contact Jane Email: Chair@sedsconnective.org Twitter: @SEDSConnective The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

Gary Aubin returns for the second time this series, to discuss how SENCOs can best utilise and support the teaching assistants in their school. Including: Tapping into you TAs interests and specialties  How to support them in their role Resources Check out the EEF's Making Best Use of Teaching Assistants resource About Gary Gary leads a national network of MAT SEND leaders through whole education as well as the author of the Lone SENCO and the SEND Matters blog.    Contact Gary Email: SENDMattersUK@gmail.com Twitter: Gary Aubin (@SENDMattersUK) / Twitter LinkedIn: Gary Aubin | LinkedIn Read the SEND Matters Blog here: Blog – SEND Matters The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

Since COVID, attendance in school has been on the decline. With new measures being implemented in an attempt to get more children back in school, Suzy Rowland joins Izzy on the podcast to discuss the deeper reasons students may not be in school.  During the episode, Suzy covers: The main groups of children that are most likely to be school avoiders and why Universal provision to help students attend school Examples of what school staff can do to gain a young person's trust Resources mentioned in this episode Your Child is Not Broken - Heidi Mavir PDA in the Family - Steph Curtis My Senses Are Like Cups - Clare Ward and James Galpin 'I can't go to school!' - Suzy Rowland About Suzy Suzy is an author, Autism & ADHD Specialist, and founder of the Happy in School Project. Contact Suzy Check out her website www.suzyrowland.com SEND Network Courses The SEND Network courses are designed to provide best practice strategies to support children across the four broad areas of need. Each course contains four topic modules to work through in your own time. Find out more on our website! The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)