The SEND Network Podcast

The SEND Network Podcast

The SEND Network Podcast is produced by the SEND Network, and provides expert insight  to help practitioners in the special educational needs and disabilities sector to shape their practice

  1. Sensory Processing in Schools: Understanding the Needs Behind the Behaviour

    12 jun

    Sensory Processing in Schools: Understanding the Needs Behind the Behaviour

    Practical strategies for creating sensory-inclusive classrooms and supporting communication, regulation and independence. In this episode of the SEND Network Podcast, pda dad is joined by Olly Elm-Robinson, Advanced Specialist Speech and Language Therapist, and Dionne Nmai, Advanced Specialist Occupational Therapist from Seashell Trust. Together, they explore the growing importance of sensory processing and sensory inclusion within education, discussing how sensory differences can affect communication, behaviour, attention, learning and emotional regulation. Drawing on their experience working with children and young people with complex needs, they explain why understanding the reasons behind behaviour is often the key to providing effective support. The conversation covers practical adaptations that can be made in both specialist and mainstream settings, including classroom environments, movement breaks, self-advocacy tools, sensory-friendly learning spaces and approaches to school uniforms. Olly and Dionne also share examples of simple strategies that can benefit entire classrooms while still meeting individual needs. Special thanks to pda dad for producing and editing this episode. 🎧 Available to listen on all major podcast platforms 📺 Watch the full episode now on the SEND Network at send-network.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    24 min.
  2. How do we help children feel safe, confident and ready to learn?

    3 jun

    How do we help children feel safe, confident and ready to learn?

    In this episode of the SEND Network Podcast, Georgie Green is joined by Amy Husband, Executive Head at Academy21, to explore the challenges facing children and young people in education today. From early years development and communication skills to emotionally based school non-attendance, trauma-informed practice and successful reintegration, Amy shares practical insights from her experience supporting thousands of learners across a wide range of educational settings. The conversation explores the importance of relationships, understanding behaviour through curiosity rather than judgement, and how schools, families and professionals can work together to help children reconnect with learning and thrive. A thoughtful discussion for SEND professionals, educators and school leaders looking to better understand the barriers some children face and the strategies that can help them succeed. 🎧 Available to listen on all major podcast platforms 📺 Watch the full episode now on the SEND Network at send-network.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    46 min.
  3. Rewiring the Brain to Unlock Literacy and Confidence

    1 mei

    Rewiring the Brain to Unlock Literacy and Confidence

    Get in touch ​PDA Dad, Duncan, speaks with Lou Barnes of Unlock Learning on transforming dyslexia support and rebuilding self esteem in children.Recorded at the Tes SEND Show North as part of Season 10, this episode of the SEND Network Podcast brings together PDA Dad Duncan and Lou Barnes, Founder of Unlock Learning.Lou shares her journey from classroom teacher to specialist practitioner, driven by a determination to better support children with dyslexia who were losing confidence despite their intelligence and creativity. The conversation explores how difficulties with reading and writing can impact self esteem, mental health and family life, and why traditional approaches do not always work.At the heart of the episode is Lou’s approach, focused on working with the brain rather than against it. By drawing on neuroplasticity and the power of the subconscious mind, she explains how simple, child led techniques can help rewire the way letters and words are processed, creating lasting change in literacy and confidence.The discussion also touches on diagnosis, neurodivergence, and the importance of creating safe, supportive learning environments where children can thrive without losing what makes them unique.A thoughtful and practical episode for educators, SENCOs and parents looking for new ways to support children with dyslexia and build lasting confidence. 🎧 Available to listen on all major podcast platforms 📺 Watch the full episode now on the SEND Network at send-network.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    26 min.
  4. Supporting Dyslexia in Schools: Practical Approaches That Make a Difference

    23 apr

    Supporting Dyslexia in Schools: Practical Approaches That Make a Difference

    Get in touch In this episode of the SEND Network podcast, recorded live at Tes SEND North, host PDA Dad Duncan is joined by Amanda Hornby, Dyslexia Specialist Trainer at the British Dyslexia Association. Together, they explore practical strategies for supporting learners with dyslexia, focusing on what truly makes a difference in the classroom. The conversation covers common challenges, effective approaches to teaching and learning, and how schools can better adapt to meet the needs of dyslexic pupils. Drawing on Amanda’s extensive experience, this episode offers valuable insights for educators looking to build more inclusive, supportive learning environments. This episode is part of Series 10, where we speak with experts, session speakers, and professionals from across the SEND sector, recorded live at Tes SEND North. 🎧 Available to listen on all major podcast platforms 📺 Watch the full episode now on the SEND Network at send-network.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    17 min.
  5. Understanding School Avoidance (EBSA) in SEND

    16 apr

    Understanding School Avoidance (EBSA) in SEND

    Get in touch ‪PDA Dad sits down with Natasha Chalk to explore emotional-based school avoidance, masking, and how schools can better support SEND pupils. This episode of the SEND Network podcast was filmed live at the Tes SEND North show in Manchester, where PDA Dad Duncan is joined by experienced educator Natasha Chalk.  Together, they explore emotionally-based school avoidance (EBSA), what it is, why it happens, and how it’s often misunderstood as “refusal” rather than anxiety-driven avoidance. The conversation highlights the realities faced by families, the challenges for schools, and the importance of early intervention.  Natasha shares practical insights for SEND professionals, including: How to recognise the subtle signs of EBSA The impact of masking and why it’s often missed in schools Why SEND support must be a whole-school responsibility Simple, actionable steps professionals can take immediately This is an honest and insightful discussion designed to support teachers, SENCOs, and education professionals working with children experiencing anxiety around school attendance.🎧 Available to listen on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode now on the SEND Network See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    19 min.
  6. Season 9 Episode 6: Supporting Speech, Language and Communication from Early Years Onwards

    1 apr

    Season 9 Episode 6: Supporting Speech, Language and Communication from Early Years Onwards

    Get in touch In this episode, Georgie Green is joined by Kate Freeman, Consultant at Speech & Language Link. Together they explore the growing importance of early identification, the role of everyday interaction in developing communication, and how schools and early years settings can better support children with speech, language and communication needs. From oracy and screening to screen time and school readiness, this is a practical and thought-provoking conversation for SEND professionals. 🎧 Available to listen on all major podcast platforms 📺 Watch the full episode now on the SEND Network at send-network.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    50 min.
  7. Season 9 Episode 5: Rethinking Assessment and Skill Development in SEND

    25 feb

    Season 9 Episode 5: Rethinking Assessment and Skill Development in SEND

    Get in touch Why teaching pupils how to learn may matter more than teaching more content:In this episode, Dr Tej Samani explores how SEND professionals can move beyond content-heavy interventions and towards strengthening core learning skills.We discuss:• Personalising assessment at scale• Capturing and responding to pupil voice• Reducing overwhelm and anxiety in the classroom• Social media, attention and self-regulation• Building independent, self-driven learnersA practical and forward-looking discussion for practitioners seeking sustainable approaches in an increasingly complex education landscape 🎧 Available to listen on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode now on the SEND Network at send-network.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    43 min.
  8. Season 9 Episode 4: Beyond the NEET Statistics

    18 feb

    Season 9 Episode 4: Beyond the NEET Statistics

    Get in touch How early intervention and inclusive practice can change outcomes for young people: With nearly one million young people currently not in education, employment or training, the scale of the challenge is stark. In this episode, Dr Sharon Smith, Assistant Head of Teaching and Learning (Quality) at Tute Education, explores what those figures really mean for SEND practitioners on the ground.  From systemic pressures and narrow measures of success to the power of early intervention and relational practice, Sharon argues that preventing disengagement starts long before results day. This is a conversation about courage, alternative pathways, and why changing outcomes for one child at a time can shift the wider narrative. 🎧 Available to listen on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode now on the SEND Network at send-network.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    36 min.
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Info

The SEND Network Podcast is produced by the SEND Network, and provides expert insight  to help practitioners in the special educational needs and disabilities sector to shape their practice

Informatie

  • Maker
    The SEND Network Podcast
  • Jaren actief
    2023 - 2026
  • Afleveringen
    65
  • Beoordeling
    Veilig
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The SEND Network Podcast
  • Website van aflevering
    The SEND Network Podcast

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