Best Senco Podcasts (2025)

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Helping Learning To Stick with Dr Susie Nyman 1:00:25

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7d ago1:00:25

1:00:25

As we approach the end of 2025, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt thanks to you - our wonderful listeners! It has been another remarkable year with 52 episodes recorded, 35 new guest speakers and 100,000 downloads. Thank you for being part of this journey! I'm excited to share our latest episode of the SENDcast, where we explore the…

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7. How to manage meetings as a SENDCO with Ginny Bootman 44:17

9d ago44:17

44:17

In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Ginny Bootman to discuss how SENDCOs can manage meetings in the best way possible. They discuss what can be done pre, during and post each meeting to support children and their parents carers. Roy Leighton's website (mentioned in this episode) can be found here. About Ginny Ginny has…

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How to Make an Effective Education, Health and Care Plan with Ekaterina Harrison 52:17

14d ago52:17

52:17

Despite being central to support for children with SEND, the Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) process is often overwhelming and confusing for families. Ekaterina Harrison, a solicitor and author of the EHCP Handbook, joins Dale to discuss 'How to Make an Effective Education, Health and Care Plan'. Ekaterina offers vital legal insights and pe…

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Sensory Struggles With Eating with Dr Joanna Grace 1:05:31

22d ago1:05:31

1:05:31

Can you believe it's already December? With the holiday season upon us, festivities often revolve around food, which can be particularly stressful for families with fussy eaters - something I can relate to with my 7-year-old son at mealtimes. Eating is essential for our health and well-being, yet it can become a source of anxiety for many families.…

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6. Building universal communication support in schools with Sophie Mustoe-Playfair and Juliet Leonard (Speech & Language Link) 28:53

23d ago28:53

28:53

In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Juliet and Sophie from Speech & Language Link to discuss how to build universal communication support in schools. About Sophie Sophie is a Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist at Speech & Language Link, with a career dedicated to supporting schools and early years provider…

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Adaptive Teaching Through 5 Phases of the Lesson with Sara Alston 1:08:49

29d ago1:08:49

1:08:49

In our latest episode of the SENDcast, we tackle an important topic that often gets lost in the debate over terminology: the practical aspects of differentiation and adaptive teaching. Too much discussion focuses on what to call these strategies, and not enough on how to effectively implement them. Today, Sara Alston, an experienced SEND and Safegu…

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5. Inclusive writing and assistive technology with Dr. Sarah Moseley 19:56

1M ago19:56

19:56

In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Dr. Sarah Moseley to discuss inclusive writing and assistive technology, the topic of Sarah's upcoming book. Sarah and Georgie discuss: What is inclusive writing and what role does it play in the mainstream classroom? How can practitioners support agency and expression? How can assis…

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Sensory Processing – Exactly How Does It Impact On Daily Life? with Ali Neal 55:20

1M ago55:20

55:20

It can be difficult to understand exactly how much we use our senses for all daily tasks. Today, Dale discusses the fascinating world of sensory processing with our special guest, Ali Neal, an experienced occupational therapist. She discusses how sensory processing impacts daily life, particularly for children and individuals in educational setting…

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Breaking the Cycle: How Informed Parents Can Change the SEND System with Samantha Ryan 56:32

1M ago56:32

56:32

Navigating the SEND system can be overwhelming, and many parents find themselves without essential information until it's too late. Unfortunately, there's no handbook to guide us. Often, parents only begin to understand SEN processes, the graduated approach, and even SEN law when their child is already struggling. This week, we welcome Samantha Rya…

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The SEND Network Podcast Special Edition: Live at the Tes SEND Show 2025 22:57

2M ago22:57

22:57

In this special edition of the SEND Network Podcast, recorded at the Tes SEND Show, we speak with a range of speakers, exhibitors, and guests to capture their insights, experiences, and reflections from across the event. From classroom innovation to inclusive practice and whole-school approaches, this episode brings together voices from across the …

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Introducing ITV's Play Time - the groundbreaking new TV show championing SEND children with Céin McGillicuddy and Andy Kinnear 53:01

2M ago53:01

53:01

Have you heard of the TV show The Assembly? I'm thrilled to announce that the series director, Céin McGillicuddy and his creative partner Andy Kinnear, have joined Dale on the podcast to discuss their brand-new pilot show on ITV – Play Time! Play Time features six neurodivergent comedians visiting a primary school and are challenged, in the course …

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Exploring Neuro-Dramatic-Play with Dr Sue Jennings 54:02

2M ago54:02

54:02

In this week's episode, Dr Sue Jennings, a leading expert in neuro-dramatic play and drama therapy, joins Dale to explore Neuro-Dramatic-Play (NDP). Sue explains that NDP is an attachment-based approach designed to help children, particularly those with negative early experiences, build connections through play. She emphasises the critical role of …

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Specialist Online Provision for Neurodivergent Learners with Cathy Wassell 1:02:35

2M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

The mainstream school environment can be overwhelming for many neurodivergent students, with sensory overload and social challenges often creating significant barriers to learning. Today, we explore an alternative educational pathway that removes these obstacles – a 'Specialist Online Provision for Neurodivergent Learners'. In this episode, Dale sp…

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The Experiences of Girls in School with Diagnosed/Undiagnosed ADHD with Louise Belshaw 1:06:41

2M ago1:06:41

1:06:41

With ADHD awareness month upon us, we wanted to discuss the important topic of 'the experiences of girls in school with diagnosed/undiagnosed ADHD'. In this episode, Louise Belshaw, who has ADHD and is a mother to two adult children with the condition, shares her extensive experience as a secondary teacher and her specialisation in ADHD in females.…

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4. The importance of neuromotor development in early education with Elizabeth Cordle pt.2 21:59

2M ago21:59

21:59

In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Elizabeth Cordle to discuss the importance of neuromotor development in early education. This is part two of a two part series. Elizabeth and Georgie discuss: The importance of motor maturity Factors which might cause slower neuromotor development in the early years Neuromotor develo…

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The Reality of OCD: Creating safe spaces for SEND students with Shaun Flores 48:59

2M ago48:59

48:59

This OCD Awareness Week, I invite you to listen to our latest episode of the SENDcast, featuring Shaun Flores, a mental health advocate and consultant. In this honest and enlightening discussion 'The Reality of OCD: Creating Safe Spaces for SEND Students', Shaun sheds light on the often-misunderstood condition of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)…

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Navigating SEN Parenting: Tools for Thriving with Sharona Smith 1:02:11

3M ago1:02:11

1:02:11

When a doctor or professional asks for details about when, why and where your child's meltdown occurred, unless you have the most incredible memory, it's unlikely you'll be able to remember the finer details. Triggers, timings, environments are all helpful in understanding a child's behaviour, but how can you keep track of them? "If I had to go spe…

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3. The importance of neuromotor development in early education with Elizabeth Cordle 25:11

3M ago25:11

25:11

By The SEND Network Podcast

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From Anxiety to Attendance: Rethinking SEMH Support with Helen Bray 1:17:54

3M ago1:17:54

1:17:54

Attendance is a national priority, yet many interventions focus on behaviour management rather than addressing underlying SEMH needs. Helen Bray, the Director of SEND for the East Midlands Education Trust, joins Dale today to discuss the impact of SEMH challenges, post-pandemic trauma, and the rise of emotionally based school avoidance on attendanc…

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Developing Distributive Leadership in Secondary Schools to Improve Inclusion with Eleanor Sams 58:52

3M ago58:52

58:52

As SEND registers continue to grow and expectations rise across the profession, many SENDCOs are leaving due to overwhelming workloads and lack of support. It's crucial that we rethink how to empower teachers to meet their students' needs. In today's episode, Dale was joined by Eleanor Sams, an Assistant Headteacher and SENDCO at the Marvel College…

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2. The importance of oral communication and how to develop a whole school approach with Emmanuel Awoyelu 28:07

3M ago28:07

28:07

In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Manny Awoyelu to discuss the importance of a whole school approach to support oral communication. Manny and Georgie discuss how: Oral Communication is the forgotten discipline after Reading, Writing & Mathematical skills. Oral communication deepens learning in the classroom Oral Comm…

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Supporting the Transition from Primary to Secondary School for SEN Children with Kirsty Greenwood 59:18

3M ago59:18

59:18

As the new Year 7 cohort settles into secondary school life and the Year 6 students prepare for their upcoming transition, I wanted to highlight this timely topic for our discussion this week. My daughter is about to embark on this journey, and I must admit, the prospect of secondary school feels quite daunting! A recent report revealed that 1 in 4…

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Emotional Based School Avoidance: How Can Schools Help Autistic Pupils? with Sue Sheppard 1:04:23

4M ago1:04:23

1:04:23

In this week's podcast, Dr Sue Sheppard, an educational psychologist with over 30 years of experience in autism joins Dale. In this enlightening episode, we delve into the important topic of Emotion-Based School Avoidance (EBSA) and how schools can better support autistic pupils. Dr Sheppard discusses the alarming statistics surrounding school atte…

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1. Supporting complex needs through physical activity with Angela Lydon 26:21

4M ago26:21

26:21

The SEND Network Podcast is back for Season 8 to kick off the new academic year! And we're bringing you a new host, the brilliant Georgie Green. In this opening episode, Georgie is joined by Angela Lydon, former PMLD teacher and now National Manager for the Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Programme. This episode covers: The importance of…

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Supporting ND Learners in Secondary School Settings and Further Education with Susana Gonzalez 1:02:28

4M ago1:02:28

1:02:28

In today's episode, Dale is joined by Susana Gonzalez, the director and founder of ND Bright Brains, who brings over 20 years of experience in education. They discuss supporting neurodivergent learners in secondary schools and further education. Neurodivergent students often face unique challenges in environments that aren't designed to meet their …

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Cracking the Code – Early Print Concepts and Literacy Readiness with Dr Sarah Moseley & Ginny Bootman 55:27

4M ago55:27

55:27

The third in a four-part series on literacy success, Dr Sarah Moseley and Ginny Bootman join Dale to discuss 'Cracking the Code – Early Print Concepts and Literacy Readiness'. This discussion focuses on looking at books, texts or symbols in print and taking meaning from them. During the podcast they discuss: The use of symbols and why you need to k…

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Where Safeguarding and SEND Meet with Sara Alston 58:41

4M ago58:41

58:41

Neglect, abuse and exploitation are challenging subjects, however safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. When it comes to individuals with SEND, things can get complicated. From communication barriers and misunderstood behaviours to gaps in training and confidence, schools can struggle to get it right. In this episode, Dale discusses the comple…

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Autism: The Quiet Ones with Dr Joanna Grace 1:04:42

5M ago1:04:42

1:04:42

We often think of the disruptive autistic child - the one whose behaviour draws attention and prompts others to suggest stricter discipline. This representation, sometimes referred to as the "boys' presentation of autism", overshadows the many individuals who do not visibly express their struggles. Dr Joanna Grace, sensory engagement and inclusion …

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How Learning Can Come To Life Through Horses with Fay Atkins, Suzi Barnett & students 47:23

5M ago47:23

47:23

I'm excited to share today's podcast, which holds a special place in my heart. Back in primary school, I had the incredible opportunity to ride and learn about horses at the Fortune Centre in the New Forest, igniting a lifelong passion! Nearly 50 years ago, Fortune College was established, and since then, horses have played a vital role in teaching…

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Better Oracy Through Building Speech and Language Skills in Schools with Yin Collighan & Louise Emerson 51:47

5M ago51:47

51:47

Oracy is increasingly taking centre stage in national discussions, and in today's episode, Dale is joined by Yin Collighan and Louise Emerson, both experienced Speech and Language Therapists. Together, they delve into the significance of oracy in schools and how enhancing speech and language skills can foster a more effective learning environment. …

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Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging with Dr Susie Nyman 1:19:06

5M ago1:19:06

1:19:06

We are delighted to welcome back Dr Susie Nyman to the SENDcast following her recent visit to Buckingham Palace! In this episode, Susie joins Dale in the studio along with some other special guests……Percy Pig and an array of puppets! In this lively discussion on 'Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging' (EDIB), Susie highlights that all studen…

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Parenting a Neurodivergent Child with Kate Steer 55:26

5M ago55:26

55:26

Parenting is one of the most challenging yet rewarding journeys we can embark on. As a parent of a 10-year-old daughter and a 7-year-old son, I'm navigating this rollercoaster and learning along the way. For neurodivergent parents, there's often the added worry of balancing the past, present, and future. Appointments, meeting our child's needs, and…

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The Role of Technology and How To Use It Effectively Within The Classroom with Stephanie Smith 52:00

6M ago52:00

52:00

The world outside of education is filled with technology, and if we shield children from it, we risk disadvantaging them when they transition into adulthood. It's essential that we prepare them for the realities of the modern world. In our latest episode, Stephanie Smith, Head of School at the Cavendish School, joins Dale to explore 'The role of te…

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Why Your Child Isn’t ‘Lazy’ – The Learning Difficulties International Schools Miss 3:35

6M ago3:35

3:35

Send us a text Why Your Child Isn’t ‘Lazy’ – The Learning Difficulties Schools Miss Is your child being described as “lazy,” “unmotivated,” or “not trying hard enough” at school? This episode is for every parent who knows their child is capable but sees them struggling — not because they’re not smart, but because something deeper is going unnoticed…

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Sensory Circuits and Sensory Movement Breaks with Ali Neal 58:58

6M ago58:58

58:58

Neurotypical pupils are usually able to meet their sensory needs during play time, however SEND pupils may face difficulties in motor or social skills. This is where sensory circuits and sensory movement breaks are often needed in the classroom. But how do you effectively incorporate them into busy school days? Ali Neal, an occupational therapist, …

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6. Developing the language of emotions in the early years with Jayne Carter 42:50

6M ago42:50

42:50

In this episode, Izzy and early years specialist Jayne Carter discuss developing the language of emotions in the early years – looking at different approaches and the importance of focusing on helping children improve their ability to express themselves. They discuss: The EEF’s ‘5 a day principle’ The ‘little and often’ approach The significance of…

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Neurodiversity – Building Connections and Building Confidence with Marlon Huggins 50:21

6M ago50:21

50:21

Gaming often gets a bad reputation, but it offers numerous benefits, especially for neurodivergent individuals. Many neurodiverse young people spend their lives in survival mode, navigating challenging environments - not just physically, but socially. The pressure to fit in, the fear of making mistakes, and the constant effort to mask can be exhaus…

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How Can Schools Support Parents of SEN Children More Effectively with Sarah Billingham 1:08:30

6M ago1:08:30

1:08:30

SENCOs, school leaders & class teachers are currently spending large amounts of time supporting or responding to the concerns of parents of SEN children. However, much of this support is reactive and can feel like constant firefighting. A strategic approach to parental support is needed. Sarah Billingham, a specialist teacher with over 18 years of …

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5. Let’s bring dyslexia back into the room with Louise Selby 38:42

6M ago38:42

38:42

An estimated 1 million schoolchildren in the UK are affected by dyslexia. Despite this, sometimes the need is overlooked. Dyslexia specialist Louise Selby explains why this can be the case and how dyslexia can be ‘brought back into the room’. They discuss: The new definition of dyslexia and why we need to talk about it What dyslexia can look like W…

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The Stories We Tell About Autism with Dr Joanna Grace 1:19:19

7M ago1:19:19

1:19:19

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 wit…

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Bridging the Gap with Parent Carers with Rachel Wright 52:58

7M ago52:58

52:58

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 person…

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4. SLCN - What does early intervention really mean? With Kate Freeman (Speech & Language Link) 33:28

7M ago33:28

33:28

In this episode of the SEND Network Podcast, guest host Georgie Green is joined by Speech and Language Therapist, Kate Freeman. They discuss the importance of early intervention to support children with speech, language and communication needs. The key areas covered are: Signs to look out for to identify SLCN What does 'early' really mean? What int…

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Special Episode nasen live 2025 20:37

7M ago20:37

20:37

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 Disabilitie…

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Digital Dilemmas with Helen Bray 1:13:59

7M ago1:13:59

1:13:59

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 tod…

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How Does Dyslexia Impact in the Classroom? with Jane Craig & Samantha Buttle 1:08:11

7M ago1:08:11

1:08:11

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 poten…

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3. When parents and professionals align for SEND success with Olivia Kessel and Lynn How 45:10

7M ago45:10

45:10

This week’s episode of the SEND Network Podcast is a special collaboration with the SEND Parenting Podcast. Izzy joins Dr Olivia Kessel and Lynn How to discuss bridging the gap between parents and professionals. They discuss: Why parents and professionals sometimes struggle to connect Success stories when communication goes right And the “magic for…

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Hearing the Patterns – Phonological Awareness in Literacy Development with Dr Sarah Moseley & Ginny Bootman 1:14:59

8M ago1:14:59

1:14:59

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 …

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Special Episode The Autism & ADHD Shows 2025 27:37

8M ago27:37

27:37

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 Aut…

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Supporting Neurodiverse Students: Insights from Awesome Archie with Rebecca Clapcott 59:28

8M ago59:28

59:28

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 teach…

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2. Integrating technology into your practice with Stephanie Smith 29:41

8M ago29:41

29:41

Are you trying to figure out how to make better use of technology in your setting? For this episode, Izzy is joined by Stephanie Smith to discuss using assistive technology effectively. There’s an array of ways it can benefit your setting including: Breaking down physical barriers, Engaging students in learning Supporting SEMH On top of exploring t…