The SENDcast

I expect you've come across controversial headlines such as 'cause for autism discovered', which suggest that autism is a disease. You may have also heard narratives claiming that autism results from bad parenting or is merely a form of behaviour. Some of these stories have been repeated for so long that they continue to shape our understanding without us even realising it. We are delighted to welcome back the newly appointed Dr. Joanna Grace, a sensory and inclusion specialist, to discuss 'The stories we tell about autism' in our 250th episode. "I've repeated that story to parents, there's been somebody in the room who has been approached by a stranger, usually in supermarkets, sometimes on trains, and told that if you just hit your child more, they wouldn't be autistic." Dr Joanna Grace The stories we embrace shape our actions. If we frame autism as a sickness, we seek a cure; if we see it as a behavioural issue, we look for consequences. By recognising the stories we tell and the narratives surrounding us, we can question their foundations and, when necessary, shift to a more supportive perspective. Autism has been described in various ways over the years, and many of the old ways of talking about autism survive in our current day conversations. These can be misleading. When we look to better support autistic people, we need to be sure of the foundations we build from. View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop! About Dr Joanna Grace Dr 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 www.TheSensoryProjects.co.uk www.Facebook.com/JoannaGraceTSP https://x.com/Jo3Grace sensorystory@gmail.com Useful Links Autism: behaviour or neurotype? session with Jo Grace Books 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 Squared 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.

I wanted to share our latest episode featuring Rachel Wright, founder of Born at the Right Time and a parent of neurodiverse children discussing 'Bridging the Gap with Parent Carers'. While schools, social care, and health services may believe they are partnering effectively with parents, the reality can be quite different. Rachel shares her personal journey navigating the healthcare system for her eldest son, who has complex needs. Her story highlights the frustration many parents feel when they are directed by professionals while lacking agency in decisions affecting their children. This episode emphasises the importance of making every interaction as beneficial as possible and build positive relationships with parent carers. It is understandable that relationships between professionals and parents/carers is more fraught than ever, the experience of trauma coupled with implementation gaps can cause the heat to quickly rise in conversations. Often the little things really do make a difference. Listen to Rachel's incredible story and the vital need for genuine communication and partnership between parents and professionals to ensure that the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities are met effectively. "The single most important you can do to improve my life on a day-to-day basis is talk to me with respect. And work with me and collaborate with me. So that connection and that communication is where the power and the empathy lies." Rachel Wright About Rachel Wright Rachel is the Founder/Director of Born at the Right Time, a qualified nurse and the parent of neurodiverse and profoundly disabled sons. She's the author of The Skies I'm Under, an award-winning blogger and the host of the popular The Skies We're Under Podcast. Holding the lived experience of families at its heart, Born at the Right Time supports families, delivers CPD certified training to practitioners and influences policy makers and providers. Useful Links • Parent Carer trauma https://respond.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Parent-Career-Trauma-May-2024.pdf • Luke Clements work on systems generated trauma https://www.lukeclements.co.uk/systems-generated-trauma/ • The Skies We're Under podcast https://www.bornattherighttime.com/the-skies-we-are-under-podcast/ • The negative impact professionals can have on parents - https://www.instagram.com/p/DHbijz9O69d/ • Skies I'm under book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Skies-Im-Under-Rachel-Wright-ebook/dp/B075ZHHYRR 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 Squared 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.

nasen live 2025 preview We are delighted to welcome Michael Surr, Head of Education at nasen to the SENDcast. We are excited to be exhibiting at nasen live 2025 on Friday 4th July at the VOX in Birmingham! It is nasen's flagship conference dedicated to supporting education for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). In this special episode, Michael Surr, Head of Education at nasen, joins Dale to tell us what's on at this year's event and why you should be there! The one day conference is filled with engaging sessions covering vital topics and this year's theme is 'Preparation for life'. Hear from esteemed speakers including Ginny Bootman and Joe Fautley, alongside students sharing their lived experiences. This event offers invaluable networking opportunities with educators, school leaders, and SEND professionals, as well as a showcase of innovative products and resources from various exhibitors. Be among the first to learn about nasen's exciting new Continuous Professional Development (CPD) initiative. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to gain fresh perspectives and share best practices within a community dedicated to improving outcomes for children with SEND. We look forward to seeing you there! About Michael Surr Michael has worked for nasen since 2016 and is currently Head of Education. His background is in primary education both in the UK and abroad. He has worked as a class teacher, SENCo and Deputy Head. Since beginning his career in education, he has had a keen interest in SEND, equalities issues, and mental health. Before joining nasen, Michael worked for a Local Authority as part of the leadership team of a SEND advisory service which gave him the opportunity to broaden his experience into early years, secondary and further education. This role involved working with schools and settings to help them develop their provision for children and young people with SEND. Useful Links Book your tickets to nasen live now - https://nasen.org.uk/nasenlive/ 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 Squared 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.

As children spend more time engaging with screens - whether through social media, gaming, or streaming - there are growing concerns about the impact on their ability to focus, self-regulate, and form meaningful real-world connections. This is a topic that resonates with us all, especially as I prepare to navigate technology with my daughter. In today's episode, we welcome Helen Bray, Director of SEND, onto the podcast to discuss 'Digital Dilemmas'. Helen explores how the digital world is reshaping child development, particularly in relation to executive function, emotional regulation, social skills, and attention. During their conversation, Dale and Helen delve into the complexities of the digital world, addressing issues such as the "monkey-see, monkey-do" phenomenon, smartphone usage, communication skills, and the importance of setting boundaries. Helen emphasises the challenges and opportunities that arise in the digital age and suggests ways schools, parents, and professionals can support young people in developing healthier relationships with technology. "It's about having those difficult conversations and not avoiding them." Helen Bray View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop! About Helen Bray Director of SEND for the East Midlands Education Trust, with 20 years of experience in teaching and leadership across early years, primary, and secondary education. A passionate advocate for adaptive practice, I work with schools to embed it as the golden thread through all teaching and learning. I champion relational practice, ensuring high-quality SEMH support is a core part of every school's universal offer. Committed to breaking down the silos, I believe in a holistic approach to supporting children and young people. I also collaborate closely with local authorities to improve inclusion services for children and families. Contact Helen https://www.emet.uk.com/ www.linkedin.com/in/helen-bray-b8130826a Useful Links Positive Social : Helping young people survive + thrive on social media Responsible Innovation in Technology for Children | Innocenti Global Office of Research and Foresight Keep Children Safe Online: Information, advice, support - Internet Matters CEOP Safety Centre 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 Squared 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.

In our fast-paced world, it's essential to rethink how we approach learning and education. Unfortunately, many dyslexic learners are being left behind in the rush to cover extensive curriculum content. However, small adjustments in classroom practices can lead to significant improvements, enabling these students to thrive and reach their full potential. In this latest episode, Jane Craig and Samantha Buttle from Dyslexia Sparks, join Dale to discuss 'How does dyslexia impact in the classroom?'. Here are some key takeaways from their conversation: Dyslexia affects not only reading but also memory and processing information. Common classroom tasks, like copying from the board, can be particularly challenging for dyslexic students. The importance of assistive technology, such as audio books and reading pens, in promoting independence and enhancing learning experiences for dyslexic students. Encouraging a growth mindset for students to embrace their challenges and recognise their strengths. Allowing students to be comfortable making mistakes and exploring their interests. View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop! About Samantha Buttle I trained as a dyslexia specialist within my teaching degree. After spending several years in mainstream education, I felt my expertise in dyslexia support wasn't being used. I eventually left teaching but later found a national dyslexia charity, where I worked for several years. I then went on to work with Dyslexia Sparks when it launched in 2016. Our charity has grown and diversified into a range of areas beyond teaching and assessments, and I feel we are able to offer a complete wraparound service. I found out whilst working at the charity, I myself am dyslexic and have spent a long time, providing myself with supportive strategies to get through my day and working life. I have a real passion for the people we work with and enabling them to reach their potential. It is amazing to see them grow in confidence and improve their self-esteem, enabling them to go on and achieve things they previously thought impossible! Last year I completed my master's degree where I had a particular focus on the self esteem and mental wellbeing of those diagnosed with dyslexia. This was a real moment of achievement within my professional life. About Jane Craig Holding a BSc in Psychology and an MSc in Occupational Psychology, I have always held a keen interest in people, and in particular in helping people to develop. I began my career as a researcher at Hull University and progressed to a role as Lecturer in the Hull University Business School. After 10 years in higher education, I ventured away from academia and chose to specialise as a dyslexia tutor and assessor. At this point I discovered my real passion in life – helping neurodiverse individuals to find their inner spark and thrive in their environment. In 2016 I co-founded our charity (my 3rd baby!), Dyslexia Sparks, on a mission to help dyslexic individuals overcome barriers to success, and a vision for a world where dyslexic individuals are celebrated for what they have to offer. Contact Samantha and Jane https://www.dyslexiasparks.org.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/dyslexiasparks https://www.instagram.com/dyslexia.sparks/ https://x.com/DyslexiaSparks samantha.buttle@dyslexia-sparks.org.uk jane.craig@dyslexia-sparks.org.uk Useful Links Support for schools 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 Squared 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.

The second in a four-part series, Dr. Sarah Moseley and Ginny Bootman join Dale to discuss phonological awareness and its importance in literacy development. They explore how phonological awareness, detecting and manipulating sounds in spoken language, forms a foundation for reading skills. Sarah emphasises that understanding sounds is crucial for children's literacy success, while Ginny highlights the role of rhythm and rhyme in engaging learners. They discuss how shared experiences, like singing and storytelling, can spark a love of language and improve literacy outcomes. Sarah and Ginny also talk about how teachers can make learning fun and interactive, using music, poems, and playful activities to get children curious and engaged. I love a good dad joke and enjoy it when they use a few as examples of how to make phonological awareness fun! If you missed Sarah and Ginny's first episode listen here - 'Foundations of Early Literacy – What Are the Building Blocks?. View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop! About Ginny Bootman I 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. Ginny's Book: Independent thinking on being a SENDCO, Crown House Publishing. About Dr Sarah Moseley Dr. 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 in Special Education 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. Contact Ginny www.ginnybootman.com https://www.facebook.com/ginny.bootman.1/ https://x.com/sencogirl ginnybootman10@gmail.com Contact Sarah http://www.drsarahmoseley.com/ http://facebook.com/Drsarahmoseley http://twitter.com/drsarahmoseley send@drsarahmoseley.com Useful Links Assistive Technology Tools:Scanning Pens Dragon Dictation Read&Write by Texthelp Literacy Apps & Software: Book Creator Digital Learning & Teaching Fonetti Gentype IDL Literacy Gold Lyfta Monarch Reader Nessy Storytime Online Wordshark Websites: National Literacy Trust British Dyslexia Association Talk for Writing Teach us too 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 Squared 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.

We are delighted to welcome Geoff and Nargis Soppet, Event Directors and Founders, on The SENDcast. Geoff and Nargis join Dale in the studio for this special episode to discuss their reasons for creating the event 15 years ago, the autism friendly adaptions made, and the value attendees will get from the variety of sessions available. About the Autism and ADHD Shows Formerly known as The Autism Show, it's the national event dedicated to autism and ADHD. Attend to access a huge amount of trusted information and advice to help support an autistic or ADHD person in a home, education or workplace setting. The CPD accredited programme has been designed to enable attendees to pick and choose the learning which is most relevant, whether it relates specifically to autism, ADHD or when both conditions co-occur. Interwoven between the many theatres, one to one clinics, and practical workshops, you'll also find an essential selection of specialist products and services. Discover what's on at each location: The Autism and ADHD Show LONDON 20 – 21 June The Autism and ADHD Show BIRMINGHAM 27 – 28 June The Autism and ADHD Show MANCHESTER 4 – 5 July 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 Squared 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.

Last month, Archie Clapcott joined Dale in the studio to share his transition from mainstream to special education. Today, his Mum, Rebecca Clapcott, draws on her extensive experience as the founder of the Awesome Archie nonprofit to discuss how to support neurodiverse students and why schools must embrace change. Rebecca emphasises that many teachers lack the understanding and training needed for effective neurodiversity support, advocating for a compassionate approach that values individuality and fosters understanding among educators. She addresses relatable topics, such as school uniforms, and I particularly enjoyed her passionate insights about unnecessary rules. Rebecca discusses the importance of flexible thinking in education, urging schools to create environments where all children can thrive. She stresses that understanding and empathy are essential for effective education, stating, "In my opinion, the best teachers and TAs are those who are empathetic." View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop! About Rebecca Clapcott Awesome Archie is a neuro affirming non profit founded by a Mum (Rebecca) and Son (Archie) team. Since early 2020, Awesome Archie have written 5 books that are donated to local schools and currently being used by the University Hospitals Dorset charity to both advocate and educate. Rebecca has 16 years of lived Autism experience as a parent, years of 1:1 experience, and a late awakening into her own neurotype Contact Rebecca www.awesomearchie.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/groups/3650909864922453/ https://www.instagram.com/awesome_archie_official/ awesomearchieontour@gmail.com Useful Links Awesome Archie Facebook Group Awesome Archie Books 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 Squared 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.

Since the 2015 SEN Code of Practice SEN support has been based on a graduate response that includes an Assess, Plan, Do, Review (APDR) cycle. Unfortunately, this cycle is becoming fragmented, with each component operating in isolation. Assessments are not being linked to children's needs or plans to support them. Plans are made but not implemented and reviews are just a recap of what a child can or cannot do. Sara Alson, SEND and Safeguarding Consultant and Trainer, joins Dale in the studio to discuss why the APDR cycle matters. Sara stresses that it is an ongoing process that should adapt to the needs of each child, ultimately aiming to improve their educational experience. I thoroughly enjoyed this episode, especially Sara's engaging analogies, including her comparison of Monopoly rules to planned interventions! Make sure you listen to learn the key elements of an effective APDR cycle and how to implement it successfully. View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop! About Sara Alston Sara Alston has over 38 years teaching experience as a classroom teacher, school leader, SENCO and DSL and is now an independent SEND and Safeguarding Consultant and Trainer. She provides support and training to schools for special needs and safeguarding. She is the co-author of The Inclusive Classroom: A New Approach to Differentiation (Bloomsbury, 2021) and author of Working Effectively with Your TA (Bloomsbury, 2023). She writes regular articles for SecEd and Headteacher Update. Contact Sara www.seainclusion.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/seainclusion.co.uk Seainclusion@btinternet.com Useful Links The Inclusive Classroom book Working Effectively with your TA book 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 Squared 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.

In this episode of the SENDcast, Dale discusses informal SEND provision in mainstream primary schools with Kate Browning, an experienced SEND consultant. They explore the increasing demand for inclusive education amid a rise in children with complex needs and the challenges schools face in effectively supporting these students. Kate highlights what good practice looks like when thinking about establishing an informal SEND provision and what the potential dangers and unintended consequences are. Key points include: Growing Inclusion Needs Parental Choice vs. School Capability Positive Impact of Informal Provision Importance of High Expectations Collaborative Support Normalisation of Differences "Share, develop, widen, broaden and resource appropriately so that we can really evolve what that mainstream education offer can look like." Kate Browning Overall, the episode highlights the importance of thoughtful implementation of informal provisions and the need for ongoing support and collaboration to ensure all children can succeed in inclusive educational settings. About Kate Browning For over 25 years, I have been passionately committed to supporting schools to improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND. Over this time, I have worked as a SENCo, a SEN Advisory teacher, a Local Authority School Improvement Officer for SEND and interim Education Development Officer for NASEN. I now work as an independent consultant specialising in school improvement for SEND. I have supported NASEN in writing guidance and delivering national training on the SEND Code of Practice for SENCOs. I have a successful track record of working with individual schools Trusts and Universities to improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND thorough consultancy, training and producing written guidance. I also support Local Authorities in reviewing and developing their strategy for identifying, making provision and improving outcome for CYP with SEND. I taught the National Award for SEN Coordination and now teach on the NPQ SENCO. I facilitate SENCo Networks for schools across Leicestershire, Warwickshire and Coventry. I am an experienced Chair of Governors and SEND Governor of a large Junior school. My approach is wholly collaborative, positive and focused on empowering those I work with to make a sustainable difference to improving outcomes for children with SEND. Contact Kate kate.browning2@gmail.com www.x.com/@kate_browning2 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 Squared 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.