A few months ago, we had an insightful episode where Clare Truman introduced and explained PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance). Today, Clare has returned to share valuable advice on how to support PDA learners. The PDA Society estimates that 70% of PDA children and young people are not currently attending school due to their needs not being adequately met. It is crucial to address this issue and provide the necessary support. Clare's expertise in this area is invaluable, and her insights can mak...
Feb 29, 2024•52 min
We wanted to bring your attention to an important movement called #FlipTheNarrative, which aims to shift our perspective and promote a more inclusive conversation about humanity. In our society, there is a tendency to focus on deficits and differences when discussing individuals. However, it is crucial to reframe our thinking and recognise that at our core, we are all human beings who happen to be different. Embracing diversity is an essential part of our shared human experience, and it is time ...
Feb 22, 2024•1 hr 10 min
*Please note that this podcast contains very strong and offensive language and discussion that some listeners may find upsetting* Last summer, Rosie Jones' documentary aired on Channel 4 and with it followed great controversy on the title. Rosie Jones is a comedian with Cerebral Palsy and she created the thought-provoking documentary based on her experiences and to raise awareness of the abuse she has endured over the years because of her disability. Joanna Grace joins Dale today to discuss the ...
Feb 15, 2024•59 min
When schemes and policies control every aspect of a teacher's week to improve efficiency, it can unintentionally strip away what makes teachers unique—their quirks, passion, and individual personalities. This focus on efficiency, conformity, and standardisation stands in stark contrast to the ideals of pedagogy and can have a detrimental effect on children, young people, and their dedicated teachers. " Teachers are not challenged to think for themselves and teachers often really flourish when th...
Feb 08, 2024•1 hr 16 min
Do you know what is involved in being a MAT (Multi-Academy Trust) SEND leader? To shed light on this role, our special guest, Simon Tanner, joins Dale in today's episode to explore 'MAT SEND Leadership'. Simon, the National Director of SEND for E-ACT, brings a wealth of experience, having spent a decade as an accomplished SENCO and six years as a MAT leader for SEND. His expertise lies in developing effective SEND practices across multiple MATs and leading SEND and MAT SEND reviews nationwide. D...
Feb 01, 2024•1 hr 2 min
For children and adults with physical disabilities, the inability to fully participate and engage with their peers can be a significant challenge. However, through innovative advancements in technology, we have the opportunity to make gaming more accessible, ultimately changing lives across the globe. We have a new special guest in today's episode with Nomi Gallagher joining Dale to discuss 'Making Gaming More Accessible'. Nomi is a Specialist Occupational Therapist at SpecialEffect and she high...
Jan 25, 2024•50 min
We are delighted to welcome Arran Smith, Event Director and Founder, on The SENDcast. Arran joins Dale for this special episode highlighting what's on at the 3rd Dyslexia Show on 15 - 16 March in Birmingham and why you should be there! "We want people to be able to talk about Dyslexia and for people to talk about it in a positive way to change people's lives; whether you're in Education, a Parent, in the Workplace or an Individual." Arran Smith SUPPORTING THE UK'S NATIONAL EXHIBITION DEDICATED T...
Jan 23, 2024•23 min
Why is it that so little is known or mentioned about Conduct Disorder especially as terms such as ADHD and ODD are pretty much established in schools across the UK? Conduct Disorder is to some extent more specific in many of its symptoms than other behaviour terms and has been a constant in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). It's as if we are afraid to talk about let alone diagnose it, so in this week's episode, Fintan O'Regan joins Dale in the studio to shed light ...
Jan 18, 2024•54 min
Factors such as hunger, fatigue, illness, excitement, or nervousness can all influence a child's state of arousal in a classroom and can significantly impact their engagement and learning experience. In this week's podcast, Kim Griffin, Occupational Therapist, joins Dale to discuss what we mean by the term 'arousal' and how this links to self-regulation. Kim explains that arousal is the level of energy or alertness present in the body and how different levels of arousal can affect children. It i...
Jan 11, 2024•1 hr 4 min
About Miriam Saffer Miriam is the founder of Illuminate Inclusion, an organisation that provides a range of services for families, professionals and community organisations. Miriam is a specialist in neurodiversity who works with a range of needs, including ADHD, autism and dyslexia. Her background is in special educational needs. She has worked extensively across primary, secondary and further education settings both as a teacher and SENCO/ALNCO. Contact Miriam Saffer www.illuminateinclusion.co...
Jan 04, 2024•1 hr 2 min
As we approach the end of 2023, Dale wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've had this year on the SENDcast. For the final podcast of the year Dale decided to provide a quick summary of 'the best of SENDcast 2023'. Dale takes a look at the highlights of this year which include 52 episodes, 24 brand new guests, 130,000 downloads and a British Podcast Award finalist! All of this wouldn't have been possible without your support! We really appreciate all your listens, share...
Dec 28, 2023•8 min
If you haven't experienced walking through the woods, then how are you supposed to write a descriptive story about it? We have these experiences to draw upon as adults, but children don't. How can we give these experiences to children in school? Joining Dale again is the wonderful Dr Susie Nyman, who will guide us through the fascinating realm of multi-sensory stories. Susie emphasises the importance of incorporating visual elements, deep knowledge, and understanding to truly grasp the essence o...
Dec 21, 2023•1 hr 15 min
When was the last time you used a pen? Maybe when completing a form, or writing some Christmas cards, but we certainly don't have pen pals anymore! Everything outside of school is digital and has been replaced with technology – so why do we still expect children at school to write perfectly with no mistakes? Around 10% of the population are dyslexic and it's a condition that goes beyond difficulties with reading and writing, often leading to profound effects on an individual's well-being. In tod...
Dec 14, 2023•1 hr 1 min
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is considered to be a profile within autism and it presents as an overwhelming need to resist and avoid the ordinary demands of life. The PDA Society estimates that 70% of PDA children and young people are not in school, arguing that this is because their needs are not being met. Clare Truman joins Dale for her first SENDcast episode 'An Introduction to PDA'. We discuss: What is PDA and what do we know about it, so far? How to prioritise and present demands fo...
Dec 07, 2023•54 min
SENsible24: Elevate Your SENCO Experience with a little bit of fun and learning Step into a world of inclusivity and collaboration at the first LIVE in-person event, "All in the Room". Inspired by the idea of meeting SEN needs within the classroom, this event brings together exhibitors, speakers, and SENCOs around the same tables. Join us for a day filled with engaging sessions, laughs and a few moments of realisation, led by experts in Special Educational Needs (SEN), where knowledge is shared ...
Dec 04, 2023•16 min
Whilst going to university may be an expectation and a natural part of life for many young people, it can often seem unreachable or overwhelming for neurodivergent individuals who feel they may struggle to cope. Neurodivergent individuals often face a lack of information and awareness regarding university life, leaving them uninformed about the support and opportunities available to them. Unfortunately, they are sometimes dismissed and unfairly assumed to be incapable of pursuing higher educatio...
Nov 30, 2023•1 hr 13 min
The exclusion of people with learning disabilities and neurodivergent conditions from research happens in a multitude of ways, whether it's the result of not being able to sign a consent form or researchers not wanting their results skewed. In today's episode, Joanna Grace joins Dale to focus on the presence of people with disabilities in research. We explore the exclusion they face and the importance of their active involvement. As a researcher working closely with individuals with profound dis...
Nov 23, 2023•50 min
For some children the wonderful world of books is completely closed off due to an illness or condition that impacts on their ability to read the printed word. This could be a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia, a mental health condition like anxiety, a visual impairment, or a physical condition that makes it more difficult to hold a book, such as arthritis. But there is a way to open up this world for them and break down these barriers – audiobooks! Emily Pye from Listening Books join...
Nov 16, 2023•59 min
Pupils can be described as exceptionally gifted, talented or highflyers but often that 'gift' is hiding something else and there is no hint of SEN within that description. It is estimated that 5-10% of children identified as having high ability also have a special education need or disability. Have you heard of DME and 2E? Fintan O'Regan joins Dale to introduce the terms 'Dual and Multiple Exceptionality' (DME or 2E - Twice Exceptional in America) in today's podcast. DME refers to individuals wh...
Nov 09, 2023•56 min
Wait times for autism and ADHD assessments can be incredibly challenging and lengthy, often leaving parents feeling isolated, helpless, and scared. Many families describe this waiting period as a state of limbo, which can be emotionally and mentally draining. Jodie Warren, SEND coach & consultant for parents, joins Dale today to discuss 'how to 'wait well' when your child is on the diagnostic pathway for autism or ADHD'. Discover valuable insights on: The importance of 'waiting well' and how...
Nov 02, 2023•55 min
It is evident that SENCOs are struggling and many qualified SENCOs are not staying in their role. Additionally, LAs are getting away with unlawful practices and children with SEND are still being excluded at an alarming rate. It is crucial for teachers to receive support from the whole school team around SEND. But who leads SEND in schools? To delve into this topic, Dale is joined by Abigail Gray, SEND Consultant, to discuss 'Who leads on SEND in a school? The SENCO or headteacher?' in this epis...
Oct 26, 2023•1 hr 8 min
Have you ever experienced fears or phobias? Common ones like spiders, birds, flying, and snakes can trigger fear and panic. Interestingly, these fears are not innate; they are often derived from personal experiences or learned from others, typically during childhood. A regular voice on the podcast, Alison Knowles, returns to discuss 'How to Stop Your Limiting Belief Limiting You'. Alison tells us how our inner child hijacks us and makes decisions for us as an adult. Many individuals find themsel...
Oct 19, 2023•1 hr 2 min
Behaviour in schools and colleges is a complex issue, with various opinions and strict approaches, particularly in the UK. It can be challenging to establish consistency because of everything that's thrown at schools and colleges to deal with. Adele Bates, joins Dale today for a great discussion on 'Leading behaviour in schools and colleges'. As a Behaviour and Education Specialist, Adele brings a wealth of experience to the podcast and draws on research experiences from around the world. It's n...
Oct 12, 2023•1 hr 21 min
In this special episode, the table has turned for Dale as he takes a step back from hosting duties today on the SENDcast. Having been a guest on the SENDcast several times over the years, a friend of Dale's and an ADHD and neurodiversity consultant, Dale invited Fintan O'Regan to interview him. Join us as we discuss 'ASC and ADHD in adults' with Dale making his debut as a guest speaker on his own podcast! Many adults who displayed mild to moderate symptoms of ASC and ADHD during childhood often ...
Oct 05, 2023•59 min
Differentiation is currently facing negativity due to confusion surrounding its definition and expectations. Teachers are often filled with dread when they hear the terms 'scaffolding up', 'adaptive teaching' or 'differentiation' are introduced and assume it's going to mean more work for them. It isn't implicitly clear to teachers how to go about differentiation and who it applies to in their classroom. Catrina Lowri joins Dale today to tell us how differentiation will make life easier for teach...
Sep 28, 2023•1 hr 1 min
Empathy is the ability to put yourself in somebody else's shoes and to understand how they might be feeling in a situation. It's a personal connection that you need to have experienced to have empathy, which makes empathy flawed. In today's podcast, Amanda Sokell joins Dale to discuss 'Empathy? What we need is compassion'. Amanda created a model that for any child, and in particular a child with SEND, to be successful they need 3 key factors to be in place: Empathy – from others and for themselv...
Sep 21, 2023•1 hr
From the moment we are born, none of us have fears or phobias, we don't have any beliefs about how the world works, they are shaped by our reality – the world in which we are brought up in by our parents/carers. As we grow, our unique life experiences and the emotions we attach to certain situations or behaviours begin to define us. "We need to recognise that whatever emotion is in control at any given time, will steer and direct how we view the world and how we react to it." Alison Knowles A re...
Sep 14, 2023•48 min
Beverley joins Dale for this special episode highlighting what's on at this year's Tes SEND Show 13 - 14 October in London and why you should be there! "It's an absolutely fantastic place to network and there's so much to learn, so much to take advantage of and we've just packed so much into the programme." Beverley Walters Attending Tes SEND Show provides the opportunity for the entire school workforce to stay up to date with latest SEND issues, stay connected at a national level and find out t...
Sep 12, 2023•13 min
Getting to class on time, meeting homework deadlines, making sure the right equipment is brought into school are all essential, however, are we actively teaching and equipping students with these skills? Executive function - everyone has to have, everyone needs to learn about, but no one really knows about. One of the problems that we have around executive function skills is that often it's presumed that young people will implicitly develop these skills, and our system is really set up to celebr...
Sep 07, 2023•52 min
In schools, there is a growing blur between the realms of education and care. It has become increasingly evident that school staff are shouldering a tremendous responsibility in addressing mental health concerns, often due to long waiting lists and inconsistent quality of external support services. To shed light on this issue, we are delighted to have Zara Wright Director of SEND at the Weydon Multi Academy Trust, join Dale to discuss 'The boundaries between education and care'. Zara brings valu...
Aug 31, 2023•1 hr 14 min
