The SENDcast The Power of Relational Practice in an Autism Setting with Beth Elkins & Ian Thorsteinsson
Before announcing the final episode of 2024, I just wanted to say a big heartfelt thank you to you, our wonderful listeners! It has been another remarkable year with 51 episodes recorded, 19 new guest speakers, 100,000 downloads and a nasen award to celebrate our achievements. Thank you for being part of this journey!
This week, we dive into the concept of relational practice - a powerful approach that emphasises treating others as we wish to be treated, fostering equality, and mutual respect. I'm thrilled to welcome two new guests to the podcast: Beth Elkins, Headteacher, and Ian Thorsteinsson, Executive Principal of Gretton School.
In this episode, 'The power of relational practice in an autism setting', Beth and Ian discuss how changing the culture of a school can support the reduction of behaviours of concern and create a thriving learning environment. They share insights on the essence of relational practice and discuss the implementation.
Key takeaways include:
- The significance of shifting away from traditional hierarchical models in education.
- Strategies for creating a supportive environment that encourages intrinsic motivation.
- Insights on managing behaviour through understanding rather than punishment.
Accommodations for autism are not always clear for professionals, listen to this episode to hear how relational practice allows connection, communication and change in the most powerful of ways.
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a well-deserved break! I look forward to returning in the New Year with an exciting lineup of guest speakers and more great content.
About Beth Elkins
Beth 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 Thorsteinsson
Ian 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
http://Facebook.com/@grettonschool
http://instagram.com/@grettonschool
Contact Ian
- 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
We 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.