SEND in the experts with Georgina Durrant (Special Educational Needs Podcast)

SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant – Supporting Families with SEND at ChristmasIn this festive episode of SEND in the Experts, host Georgina Durrant speaks with Amanda Protheroe, Parent Educational Content Lead for SEND at Twinkl. Amanda draws on her experience as a class teacher, SENDCo in primary schools, and her personal journey of supporting a sibling with SEND. She shares practical advice and heartfelt insights to help families navigate the holiday season with children and young people who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).🎄 Episode highlights include:Amanda’s background and passion for supporting parents of children with SEND.What Christmas looks like in her household as a sibling of a SEND adult.Common festive challenges for children with SEND- including changes to routine and sensory overload.How parents can manage expectations and reduce pressure around creating the “perfect” Christmas.Practical strategies to support children with sensory sensitivities during noisy gatherings, flashing lights, and busy events.Preparing children for changes in routine, such as visiting relatives or attending school Christmas activities.Tips for supporting restricted diets and food sensitivities during festive meals.Alternative ways families can create meaningful traditions if they feel isolated.Amanda’s one piece of advice for parents heading into the festive season.✨ This episode is packed with SEND parenting tips, Christmas survival strategies, and supportive advice for families who want to make the holidays calmer, more inclusive, and more joyful for their children.Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)SEND parenting tipsChristmas with SEND childrenSupporting families with SENDSensory overload strategiesSEND festive traditionsInclusive Christmas ideasSEND parent support: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/parent-support-send-parents/home-support-parent-support-send-parents/seasonal-events-home-support-parent-support-send-parentsParent guide to supporting autistic children at Christmas: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/supporting-your-autistic-child-at-christmastime-t-par-1665380754Inclusion (SEND) resources: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/inclusion-teaching-resources

SEND in the Experts: Margaret Rooke on DyslexiaWelcome back to SEND in the Experts, hosted by Georgina Durrant, where we bring you conversations with leading voices in the world of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Each episode is designed to support parents, carers, and teachers who want to better understand and empower children with SEND.This week, Georgina is joined by acclaimed author Margaret Rooke, whose books have given a platform to young people with dyslexia and other forms of neurodivergence. Margaret has written multiple titles, including Dyslexia is My Superpower and Different Like Us. Her latest book revisits the young people she first interviewed, now adults navigating life with creativity, resilience, and strength.🌟 What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeMargaret’s journey as a writer and advocate for neurodivergent voicesWhy she chose to reconnect with the young people from Dyslexia is My Superpower as they entered adulthood, and the powerful lessons their stories reveal.How dyslexic strengths—like problem‑solving, creativity, and innovation—challenge traditional narratives in schools and education.Reassuring messages for parents of younger children who may feel anxious about the future, and why hope is central to Margaret’s work.The tension between conventional academic routes and the reality that many neurodivergent young people thrive outside them—and how schools and families can hold space for that.The origins of Margaret’s passion for writing about dyslexia, and how her journey began.Why her books don’t just inform but validate lived experiences, and how that intention evolved through storytelling.Insights from Different Like Us on what it means to feel “different,” and the patterns Margaret observed across diverse stories of childhood.The one thing Margaret would change about how society views dyslexia and neurodivergence today.👩‍🏫 Why This Matters for Parents & TeachersThis episode is especially valuable for:Parents who want reassurance about their child’s future and practical insights into how dyslexia can sometimes bring strengthsTeachers looking for ways to celebrate creativity and problem‑solving in the classroom, and to challenge outdated narratives about SEND.Carers and advocates who want to hold space for young people to thrive both inside and outside traditional academic routes.👉 Tune in now to hear Georgina and Margaret Rooke’s powerful reflections on dyslexia, difference, and the importance of celebrating every young person’s unique path.Dyslexia podcast for parents and teachersSEND education supportParenting children with dyslexiaMargaret Rooke books and author insightsDyslexia strengths and creativityDifferent Like Us book discussionDyslexia is My Superpower revisited

🎙️ New Episode: “Play Time” with Céin McGillicuddy & Andy KinnearIn this very special episode of SEND in the Experts, host Georgina Durrant is joined by the brilliant creative duo behind ITV’s brand new pilot Play Time — comedy writer/director Céin McGillicuddy and editor/writer Andy Kinnear.Play Time is a joyful, heartwarming new show where six neurodivergent comedians are challenged to devise and perform an original stage play — all in one school day — based entirely on the imaginations of a group of 6 to 8-year-old children from a primary school’s SEND department. It’s a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the power of neurodivergent voices.In this episode, Céin and Andy share:The inspiration behind Play Time and how Céin’s own late autism diagnosis shaped the show’s visionWhy amplifying neurodivergent voices in comedy and media is so vitalBehind-the-scenes stories from filming — including the most surprising and joyful momentsHow Play Time contributes to Disability History Month and wider conversations about inclusionThe legacy of The Assembly and how it paved the way for this new formatWhat they hope families take away from watching the showWhether you’re a parent, educator, or just someone who believes in the power of inclusive storytelling, this episode is not to be missed.📺 Play Time is streaming now on ITVX and YouTube.

In this engaging discussion, Adam Sproston, Senior Inspector at Ofsted, shares his journey from teacher to national SEND leader. He unveils the new 2025 Education Inspection Framework, highlighting its strong focus on inclusion and how inspections will evaluate support for SEND learners. Adam also addresses the role of parental feedback in the inspection process and the importance of understanding school context. With insights on overcoming barriers for diverse learner groups, this conversation is a must-listen for educators and parents alike.

Join Helen Hayes MP, Chair of the House of Commons Education Committee, as she dives into the urgent need for reform in the SEND system. With her leadership on the 'Solving the SEND Crisis' report, she discusses the broken trust in the current system and why stronger accountability is necessary. Helen emphasizes the importance of mandatory SEND training for educators and the role of EHCPs in ensuring protections. Learn how Ontario’s inclusive model can inspire UK reforms and what true inclusion in schools should look like.

SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant: Understanding Sensory Processing with OT Beth SmithsonIn this episode of SEND in the Experts podcast, host Georgina Durrant, former teacher and SENDCO, welcomes Beth Smithson, a highly experienced Occupational Therapist and Advanced Sensory Integration Practitioner. Together, they explore how sensory processing differences affect children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and how educators, parents, and therapists can better support them.Beth shares insights from over 20 years of clinical practice across health, education, and social care, including her current role at Sensory Integration Education. Topics covered include:What is sensory integration and why does it matter?Recognising signs of sensory processing differences in childrenHow sensory challenges impact learning, behaviour, and social interactionEffective strategies and interventions for supporting sensory needsThe role of Occupational Therapists in SEND supportCreating sensory-friendly environments at home and in schoolCommon myths and misconceptions about sensory processingAdvice for parents, carers, and educatorsThe future of sensory integration research and inclusive educationWhether you're a teacher, parent, SENDCO, or therapist, this episode offers practical guidance and expert knowledge to help you create more inclusive, sensory-aware spaces for all learners.Brought to you by Twinkl. Listen now to empower your practice and deepen your understanding of sensory integration. Visit the Twinkl Inclusion Hub here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/wwwfx for SEND, OT, SaLT resources and more!Useful resources: Identifying Sensory Needs: Understanding, Recognising and Managing Alertness Levels : https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/ku1zvSensory circuit flashcards https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/wn7a0 Links mentioned in the episode:www.sensoryintegrationeducation.com www.sensoryhelpnow.orgwww.sensoryinclusiveschools.org 

In this episode of SEND in the Experts, Twink's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Podcast, host Georgina Durrant (Twinkl’s National Inclusion Lead, published author, and former teacher/SENDCO) welcomes trailblazer Kate Griggs, CEO and founder of Made by Dyslexia.Kate brings her trademark energy and vision to the conversation, advocating passionately for recognising and championing Dyslexic Thinking in education and beyond. She shares her personal journey with dyslexia, from early struggles to thriving once her strengths were acknowledged, and opens up about her drive to create a world where dyslexic learners are empowered to shine.The episode dives into key themes from her children's book Xtraordinary People, which helps children identify their unique Dyslexic Thinking skills. With heartfelt advice for parents and educators, Kate stresses the importance of spotting strengths early, nurturing resilience, and fostering self-esteem in dyslexic learners.Listeners will also discover how Made by Dyslexia is leading the charge in transforming classrooms into inclusive spaces. From celebrity stories to practical tips, this episode is a celebration of dyslexia and neurodiversity more widely, and a call to action to rethink how we define success in education.Parents Guide to Dyslexia: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/x9xriDyslexia intervention: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/yeyjrPowerpoint 'My Friend has Dyslexia' information: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/14p0v5

SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant – Featuring Lisa Henshall on Inclusive Resource ProvisionsIn this insightful episode of SEND in the Experts, host Georgina Durrant, Twinkl's National Inclusion Lead, published author & former teacher/ SENDCO, welcomes the passionate and experienced Lisa Henshall to the podcast. Brought to you by Twinkl, this SEND podcast series is dedicated to supporting educators, parents, and professionals working with children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Whether you're on your daily commute or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this episode offers valuable guidance and inspiration.Lisa Henshall shares her journey and deep-rooted passion for inclusive education, offering a wealth of knowledge on how to better support learners with SEND. The conversation dives into the government's push for greater inclusivity in mainstream schools and explores the growing role of resource provisions, specialist units within mainstream settings designed to meet the needs of some learner with SEND. Lisa explains what resource provisions are, how they function, and how and why they are a vital part of inclusive education.Listeners will also gain practical insights into how to ensure these provisions foster true inclusion, not just for the learners who access them, but for the entire school community. Lisa highlights the importance of collaboration, training, and thoughtful planning in creating inclusive environments that benefit all students.Plus, Lisa discusses her recent collaboration with Twinkl alongside colleagues Louise Lawrence and Sarah Camacho. Together, they developed a powerful new resource packed with top tips for setting up a successful resource provision which can be found here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/cxiobThis episode is a must-listen for school leaders, SENDCOs, and educators looking to make meaningful change.

In this episode of Twinkl's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) podcast, SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant, Georgina chats to Gary Aubin all about supporting children with SEND with transitions. Whether that be moving from primary to secondary school or from one year group to another.Twinkl Symbols - My New School Transition Booklet https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/9cvgeSEND Transitions- Top Tips for Moving to a new class https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/7lcjwTop Tips for Supporting children moving to secondary school: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/ue2gy

In this podcast episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) podcast, Georgina Durrant and Lynn How explore the realities of being a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCO). Lynn shares her passion for supporting children and young people with SEND, offering insights into the rewards and challenges of the role. She discusses the highlights of being a SENDCO, the pressures they face, and the ways they navigate their responsibilities, including the graduated approach (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/nckeg) and the Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) process. Lynn provides guidance on the EHCP process (more information can be found herehttps://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/15qn9c ) The episode also delves into the importance of collaboration with teachers, senior leadership teams (SLT), and parents, as well as practical advice on managing wellbeing in a demanding profession. A must-listen for educators and anyone invested in inclusive education.EHCP Course: https://twinklpd.com/ehc-plan-explained-offerInformation on the Graduated Approach: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/nckegLynn's links: https://positiveyoungmind.com/