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

Georgina Durrant
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This podcast hosted by Georgina Durrant is all about teaching and supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). We aim to share the amazing things that our guests are doing to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEND). *This Podcast is proudly brought to you by the SEND team at Twinkl. Please bear in mind, the views and opinions expressed are those of individuals, and may not represent those of Twinkl.

  1. What can mainstream schools learn from special schools (and vice versa) Georgina Durrant in conversation with Dan Tresman

    JAN 10

    What can mainstream schools learn from special schools (and vice versa) Georgina Durrant in conversation with Dan Tresman

    SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant — Episode Featuring Dan Tresman (Light Years Education) In this episode of SEND in the Experts, leading SEND podcast, host and former SENDCo and author Georgina Durrant welcomes Dan Tresman, Founder and CEO of Light Years Education Ltd and former Founding Headteacher of the Ofsted Outstanding Light Years School. With extensive leadership experience across specialist, residential, and mainstream settings, Dan offers a rare, honest, and deeply practical insight into what’s really happening across the SEND landscape today. This episode is essential listening for anyone working in or alongside SEND provision, whether in mainstream or specialist environments and covers what mainstream schiools can learn from specialist settings and vice versa. Why Listen to This Episode?you'll get: A clear understanding of the current challenges in SENDDan breaks down the pressures facing specialist schools, from the rising complexity of need to delays with assessments, and explains how these issues connect to the wider national picture. Practical strategies for collaborationThe episode explores how specialist and mainstream schools can work together more effectively, with real examples of successful partnerships and the impact they’ve had on pupils and staff. A future-focused perspectiveListeners hear thoughtful reflections on how specialist and mainstream provision might evolve, and what needs to change at policy and leadership levels to ensure every child receives the support they deserve. Reflecting on the current Dfe online conversations being had ahead of the Schools White Paper and SEND reforms. Actionable advice for school leadersFrom strengthening SEND provision to building inclusive cultures, Dan offers clear, grounded guidance for leaders who want to improve but aren’t sure where to begin. What This Episode CoversDan’s career journey and what drives his passion for SENDThe creation and rapid success of Light Years SchoolThe biggest challenges facing specialist settings todayHow specialist and mainstream schools can share expertiseReal examples of effective collaborationBarriers to partnership—and how to overcome themWhat mainstream teachers can learn from specialist approachesA shared vision for a more inclusive future Who Will Benefit Most?SENDCOs and aspiring SENDCOsMainstream teachers and senior leadersSpecialist school staffEducational psychologists and therapistsParents and carersAnyone passionate about improving SEND provision Twinkl inclusion hub: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/inclusion-teaching-resources Symbols resources: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/apps/twinkl-symbols Inclusive schools network sign up form from Dan: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=XIqdQkF82kSqaTLDifFGBe2ltw1d7CxIh9m0fCwTpaxUOEwyUlhOS1RUUEtIQktLOFIwRFY2MUFQRS4u&route=shorturl SEND podcast, SEND support, specialist schools, mainstream inclusion, autism education, SEMH, SENCO advice, Light Years Education, Ofsted Outstanding special school, inclusive teaching strategies, EHCP challenges, collaboration between mainstream and specialist schools, SEND leadership, neurodiversity in education, SEND reforms, SEND online conversations, Dfe, Schools White Paper.

    46 min
  2. Supporting children with SEND at Christmas (Parents) - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Amanda Protheroe

    12/11/2025

    Supporting children with SEND at Christmas (Parents) - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Amanda Protheroe

    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 ideas SEND 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-parents Parent guide to supporting autistic children at Christmas: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/supporting-your-autistic-child-at-christmastime-t-par-1665380754 Inclusion (SEND) resources: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/inclusion-teaching-resources

    28 min
  3. Dyslexia - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Margaret Rooke

    12/06/2025

    Dyslexia - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Margaret Rooke

    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

    30 min
  4. Play Time (ITV) - Georgina Durrant in conversation with comedy writer/director Céin McGillicuddy and editor/writer Andy Kinnear.

    11/09/2025

    Play Time (ITV) - Georgina Durrant in conversation with comedy writer/director Céin McGillicuddy and editor/writer Andy Kinnear.

    🎙️ New Episode: “Play Time” with Céin McGillicuddy & Andy Kinnear In 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.

    45 min
  5. Ofsted’s New Inspection Framework & Inclusion Focus - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Adam Sproston from Ofsted

    11/03/2025

    Ofsted’s New Inspection Framework & Inclusion Focus - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Adam Sproston from Ofsted

    🎙️ SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant: Ofsted’s New Inspection Framework & Inclusion Focus with Adam SprostonIn this insightful episode of SEND in the Experts for Twinkl, host Georgina Durrant, former teacher and SENDCO, author and Twinkl's National Inclusion Lead - welcomes Adam Sproston, Senior His Majesty’s Inspector for SEND, Alternative Provision (AP), and Inclusion at Ofsted. Together, they explore the 2025 updates to Ofsted’s Education Inspection Framework (EIF), which now includes an enhanced focus on inclusion. 🎧 What you’ll learn in this episode: Adam’s career journey from classroom teacher to national SEND leaderWhy he joined Ofsted and his passion for inclusive educationWhat the new inspection framework, confirmed in September 2025 (rolled out November 10th), means for schools and SEND learnersHow inspectors will evaluate inclusion and SEND support during inspectionsWhat school leaders and teachers can expect from the enhanced inclusion lensHow school context, such as high proportions of learners with SEND, is considered during inspectionReassurance for parents and carers about the quality of SEND provisionOfsted’s broader work to improve outcomes for children and young people with SENDWhether you’re a teacher, SENDCO, school leader, or parent, this episode offers essential insights into how Ofsted’s 2025 inspection reforms are reshaping inclusive education in England. Tune in now to stay informed on the latest developments in SEND and inclusion within the UK education system. Twinkl's Inclusion hub : https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/inclusion-teaching-resourcesOfsted Inspection Framework: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/education-inspection-framework/education-inspection-framework-for-use-from-november-2025 Ofsted 2025 inspection framework, inclusion in schools, SEND provision UK, Adam Sproston Ofsted, Georgina Durrant podcast, Twinkl SEND, educational inspection updates, SENDCO support, alternative provision Ofsted, inclusive education England

    30 min
  6. Education Committee Report- Solving the SEND Crisis - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Helen Hayes MP

    09/17/2025

    Education Committee Report- Solving the SEND Crisis - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Helen Hayes MP

    Solving the SEND Crisis with Helen Hayes MP SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant In this powerful episode, Georgina Durrant is joined by Helen Hayes MP, Chair of the Education Committee, to unpack the Committee’s landmark report: Solving the SEND Crisis. With over 890 evidence submissions, including one from Twinkl, this report calls for a radical culture shift and increased funding to make mainstream education genuinely inclusive for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Together, Georgina and Helen explore: Why trust in the SEND system is broken, and how to rebuild itThe future of EHCPs and legal protections for learners with SENDWhat true inclusion in schools should look likeThe committee's recommendations for a national framework for SEND supportMandatory SEND training for teachers, leaders, and inspectorsHow Ontario’s inclusive model could inspire UK reformWhether you're a teacher, parent, SENDCo, policymaker or advocate, this episode offers vital insights into the future of SEND education, and what needs to change to make it work for every child. Find out more about Twinkl's inclusion resources here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/inclusion-teaching-resources Photograph of Helen Hayes displayed ©House of Commons/Roger Harris

    26 min
  7. Understanding Sensory Processing - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Beth Smithson

    09/02/2025

    Understanding Sensory Processing - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Beth Smithson

    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/ku1zv Sensory circuit flashcards https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/wn7a0  Links mentioned in the episode: www.sensoryintegrationeducation.com  www.sensoryhelpnow.org www.sensoryinclusiveschools.org

    52 min
  8. Dyslexic Thinking - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Kate Griggs CEO and Founder of Made by Dyslexia

    08/05/2025

    Dyslexic Thinking - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Kate Griggs CEO and Founder of Made by Dyslexia

    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/x9xri Dyslexia intervention: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/yeyjr Powerpoint 'My Friend has Dyslexia' information: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/14p0v5

    21 min
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About

This podcast hosted by Georgina Durrant is all about teaching and supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). We aim to share the amazing things that our guests are doing to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEND). *This Podcast is proudly brought to you by the SEND team at Twinkl. Please bear in mind, the views and opinions expressed are those of individuals, and may not represent those of Twinkl.

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