The SENDcast

Dale Pickles
The SENDcast Podcast

The SENDcast is a weekly podcast focusing on Special Educational Needs, it is an amazing way to keep up to date with all the different areas within SEN, best practices and to improve your knowledge around SEND.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Reconstructing the Students' Brain using The Person-Centred Approach to Learning with Dr Susie Nyman

    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: Empowerment and power Empathy and compassion Respect and dignity Providing choice and autonomy Respecting the individual’s values and preferences Participation Independence Control 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 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 Susie https://x.com/DrSusieNyman drnymanconsultancy.co.uk drsusienyman@drnymanconsultancy.co.uk   Useful Links Slide handout Teaching students from the inside out - podcast  Inclusive Learner Cocktails - podcast   Student Icebergs - podcast    Vote for B Squared at the Education Today Awards: https://educationtodayawards.co.uk/vote/   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 you

    1h 36m
  2. 12 SEPT

    Ask Don't Tell with Alison Knowles

    How often do you ask children what they think about something instead of simply telling them your opinion based on your own experiences? Often adults give answers based on their model of the world and views which aren’t necessarily right. In today’s podcast, Alison Knowles, Emotional Therapist, joins Dale to discuss ‘Ask don’t tell’. Alison tells us that by asking WHAT? and HOW?, you can transform your conversations with children. These simple questions not only build their confidence but also show them that you genuinely care about their thoughts. Encouraging them to problem-solve fosters independence and resilience. Alison emphasises that children often hold the keys to understanding life’s complexities. Sometimes, it’s far more impactful to invite their opinions rather than overwhelm them with adult explanations. Join us as we explore real-life examples of how empowering children to voice their thoughts can lead to positive outcomes. “Just by asking rather than telling, you're actually encouraging that conversation so that you can move through situations in a more positive, empowering way.” Alison Knowles Listen now to discover how to enhance your communication with the children in your life.   About Alison Knowles Ali 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:  you, a member of your family, a staff member or a child in your school needs 1-2-1 emotional resilience support to overcome a limiting belief, fear or phobia, a habit you would rather not have or an emotion that is making decisions for you.    you are interested in having us run an introductory Ollie workshop for your group, team or staff.    you need help with conflict resolution, change management, communication breakdowns.    if you would like more information about having an Ollie Coach in your school or having staff trained in the Ollie Model  you would like to find out more about becoming an Ollie Coach and joining Ollie’s Army.    Ollie is currently active in the corporate world, schools, universities alternative provision, foster and adoption.    Contact Alison https://twitter.com/bemoreollie www.ollieandhisuperpowers.com info@ollieandhissuperpowers.com https://www.instagram.com/ollie_and_his_super_powers https://www.facebook.com/OllieandhisSuperPowers   Useful Links YouTube Channel   Vote for B Squared at the Education Today Awards: https://educationtodayawards.co.uk/vote/   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 professi

    58 min
  3. 5 SEPT

    Positive Psychology (PP) Wellbeing & SEMH with Dr Rob Long

    Often, when children are labelled with a 'problem,' they are perceived as different or failing, which can create a cycle of negativity. This can lead to challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression, as the brain tends to hold onto these negative perceptions. In the last 10-15 years, the field of positive psychology has emerged as a valuable counterpoint to the traditional focus on fixing mental health issues. Dr Rob Long, a Chartered Psychologist, joins us to discuss how positive psychology can offer a transformative approach to supporting children and young adults, particularly those facing social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) difficulties. During our discussion we cover: The history of Positive Psychology. Maslow’s influence. Seligman's contribution: by actively promoting well-being and resilience, which he termed the "PERMA" model (Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment). The importance of context and individual differences. The bidirectional relationship between well-being and mental health. Listen to hear how positive psychology provides a valuable framework for supporting children and young adults, especially those facing SEMH challenges. By focusing on enhancing well-being, resilience, and fulfilment, rather than solely addressing problems, positive psychology can empower young people to reach their full potential.   About Dr Rob Long DR Rob Long is a Chartered Psychologist who provides independent training to teachers and other professionals concerned with children and young adults. Rob's main area of interest is supporting children who face social, emotional and mental health difficulties. He is committed to developing, through training, project work and publications an understanding of these children and providing solutions and practical help to school staff and families.   He is a tutor on a distance learning course in Social, Emotional and Mental Health issues run by Oxford/ Brookes University and SEBDA.  He is also an active member of SEBDA.    Contact Dr Long https://x.com/@SebdaOrg www.sebda.org info@roblong.co.uk   Useful Links Supporting Parental Well-Being Building Wellbeing and Resilience   Vote for B Squared at the Education Today Awards: https://educationtodayawards.co.uk/vote/   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.

    54 min
  4. 29 AUG

    Identifying Language Needs in Primary Through Screening

    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: Screening is crucial Implementation is key Invest time in understanding Don't be afraid to adapt Invest in expertise Focus on effectiveness “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 Welch Angharad 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 Angharad findthekeyslt@hotmail.com facebook.com/findthekeyslt https://twitter.com/FindthekeySLT findthekeyslt.co.uk   Useful Links WellComm toolkit Speech and Language Link Language Screen   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.

    48 min
  5. 22 AUG

    Awesomely Autistic with Tigger Pritchard

    Having had several chance encounters at the Autism Shows, we're delighted to finally have Tigger Pritchard as a guest on the podcast! ‘Awesomely Autistic’ is a profound and insightful exploration of Tigger's personal journey as a neuroaffirming advocate, consultant, and trainer. Tigger shares a heartfelt and deeply honest insight into his experiences growing up as an autistic individual. He describes the challenges he faced, particularly during his school years, when he felt alienated and misunderstood in a world that didn't seem to embrace his unique way of thinking and engaging with the world. Tigger recounts his attempts to fit in, the social isolation, and the trauma he experienced. Tigger shares how he eventually found his footing by discovering his passions and interests, which provided a sense of safety and belonging. He highlights what helped him along the way on his journey and how sensory experiences shaped his memories. “To anybody that discovers they’re neurodivergent. I say find your well informed neurokin as soon as you can”. Tigger Pritchard Listen to Tigger's inspiring journey of self-discovery, reinvention, and ultimately, finding success and fulfilment in his chosen path as an autistic individual.   About Tigger Pritchard My name is Tigger Pritchard, awesomely Neurodivergent and passionate about reducing anxiety for all. To help all Neurotypes understand each other, to bridge the Neurodivide. Self-Identifying Neurospicy, working with individuals, families, education, cooperate organisations across the UK! Face to face and by Zoom.   Contact Tigger tiggertraining@gmail.com www.tiggerpritchard.com facebook.com/Neuroaffirming   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.

    1h 15m
  6. 15 AUG

    The Magic of ‘High Value’ Strategies for Pupils with SEND in the Classroom with Angela Scott

    Schools often invest in professional development to make classrooms dyslexia, autism or speech language and communication ‘friendly’. However, this can overwhelm teachers with too much information, making them feel they can no longer effectively support all of their students’ different needs. Angela Scott joins Dale for this week’s podcast to discuss ‘The magic of ‘high value’ strategies for pupils with SEND in the classroom’. Angela highlights that you can make the lives of teachers manageable by introducing them to relevant ‘high value’ teaching strategies, which if implemented will make a positive difference to children and young people with a mix of SEND profiles. Angela reflects on the high incidence of co-occurring SEND profiles experienced by many children and young people. An alternative approach is to stop thinking in silos and to embrace a small but powerful range of strategies, which can make learning possible for pupils with SEND across all four broad areas of need. Listen to find out what strategies work for children with a range of SEND profiles, identify similarities and give SENCOs the tools to unleash these strategies in a way that has meaningful impact. “What are the high value strategies? Not imposing some of those more abstract things that work for us, presuming that the way we see a learning plan or a way to organise ourselves, is the way that every child in our class sees it.” Angela Scott   About Angela Scott Angela 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 Angela Easternp.send@hertsforlearning.co.uk www.easternpartnership.co.uk & www.regionalsendforum.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 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.

    1h 13m
  7. 8 AUG

    Identifying Dyslexia and Why it Matters with Dr Helen Ross

    In today’s podcast we delve into the profound mental health effects of dyslexia and the crucial need to address them. Dyslexia not only presents self-esteem challenges but also carries significant implications for individuals' overall well-being. However, there are numerous ways to mitigate the detrimental effects of dyslexia, especially when it is openly discussed and destigmatised. Once again, we are joined by Dr. Helen Ross, who shares her insights on 'Identifying Dyslexia and Why it Matters'. In our conversation, Helen emphasises the importance of screening to identify dyslexia, enabling individuals to better understand themselves and fostering a supportive environment where teachers can comprehend their needs. By making necessary adjustments in the classroom and adopting a holistic approach, we can empower individuals with dyslexia to thrive. “If kids don't understand why they do things in a certain way, or don't do things in a certain way, that's when that ‘I'm stupid’ thought process happens with them.” Dr Helen Ross By helping children understand why they may approach certain tasks differently or struggle with specific areas, we can prevent the detrimental thought process that often leads to feelings of inadequacy and self-judgement.   About Dr Helen Ross Dr Helen Ross is a fully qualified special needs teacher and former SENCO, working as an independent educational research consultant, specialist assessor and SEND expert. Helen is a Trustee of the British Dyslexia Association, Chair of the Wiltshire Dyslexia Association and is on the board of the US, not-for profit National Coalition of Independent Scholars. She has consulted for the British Dyslexia Association, The Committee for Science and Technology (part of the UK Government), and Wiltshire Local Authority. She also works internationally with various third sector and commercial organisations with evaluation, consultancy and resource development. Helen’s research explores stakeholder experiences of SEND provision within the mainstream education sector, focussing on the empowerment of those supporting young people, to help them to take ownership of their own learning. She uses her findings from research to inform her own practice and to support other practitioner in their own work, through CPD webinars and live sessions.   Contact Helen helen@helensplace.co.uk https://x.com/drhelenross helensplace.co.uk/   Useful Links British Dyslexia Association website Succeed With Dyslexia   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.

    1h 4m

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The SENDcast is a weekly podcast focusing on Special Educational Needs, it is an amazing way to keep up to date with all the different areas within SEN, best practices and to improve your knowledge around SEND.

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