The SENDcast

This Dyslexia Awareness Week (7-13 October), we are excited to share our latest podcast episode featuring dyslexia specialist Louise Selby! We tackle some of the most common myths surrounding dyslexia, shedding light on the misunderstandings that persist in education and beyond. There’s a significant debate about whether dyslexia even exists, and it’s concerning that many educators and parents still lack a clear understanding of this condition. A shared understanding could lead to better support for students, ultimately focusing on providing high-quality teaching. In this episode, we debunk 10 Myths about Dyslexia, including: Dyslexics see letters move on the page and reverse letters Dyslexia friendly teaching means using coloured paper and overlays Dyslexia is linked to intelligence Good readers can't have dyslexia If you just knuckle down and work a bit harder it’ll go away Anyone who has the money to pay for a private assessment can get the label Dyslexia means you get extra time in exams Reading and spelling intervention for dyslexics is different and requires specialist training All dyslexics are creative and visual thinkers All dyslexics are good at seeing the bigger picture and thinking outside the box Listen to this enlightening conversation that demystifies dyslexia and empowers educators and parents alike. Together, we can create a more supportive environment for all learners!   About Louise Selby Louise worked as a specialist advisory teacher in Hertfordshire Local Authority for 11 years, where she gained extensive experience in training teaching assistants and SENCOs in meeting the needs of learners with specific learning difficulties. Before this, Louise worked as a class teacher and SENCO in the primary sector and also as a teacher of learners with English as an Additional Language. She now works freelance in advising, training and supporting schools as well as assessing for specific learning difficulties (dyslexia). Louise’s interest is in enabling and equipping staff in schools at grass roots level to meet learners’ needs. , and she is currently writing her next two books for the same publisher, called All About Dyslexia.   Contact Louise https://x.com/louiseselby21 http://www.louiseselbydyslexia.com louise@louiseselbydyslexia   Useful Links Access Arrangements blog Visual skills checklist, Dyslexia definitions & fact sheet   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.

We're excited to announce that in this week’s episode of the SENDcast, we welcome Joe Fautley to share his invaluable insights in “Autism: My Personal Experiences and Advice for Professionals.” In this open and honest discussion, Joe offers a unique perspective as a young adult growing up and living on the Autism Spectrum. He shares his personal journey, highlighting the needs, strengths, achievements, challenges, and aspirations of children and young people with SEND. Joe's experience as an Autism advocate shapes his approach to making education more accessible and comfortable for students with autism. He currently works at the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) and plays a vital role as co-chair of the NCB Staff Disability and Neurodiversity Network, empowering colleagues with disabilities and neurodiversity. Joe highlights four important discussion points: Don’t underestimate anxiety: triggers and the powerful impact of anxiety on daily life. Allow time to process information: interpreting language, information overload and filtering everything that’s being said. Autistic Fatigue and Burnout: pressures of everyday life, and processing it, can lead to exhaustion. Avoid making assumptions: encourages professionals to avoid making assumptions about autistic students’ needs and experiences. Joe shares practical tips across four key areas of difference: language use, flexible thinking, social interaction, and sensory processing—tools essential for supporting autistic students throughout their education. Join us for this enlightening conversation that aims to enhance understanding and support for autistic individuals in educational settings.   About Joe Fautley I’m an Autistic person who also has Dyspraxia and anxiety. Over many years, I have been involved in various projects which enable Autistic people to have a voice in decision making and make a positive impact on society. I’m passionate about raising awareness and understanding of Autism and wider neurodiversity. I’m passionate about using my voice and lived experiences to be a positive role model and help inspire and support others. For example, I use my platform on Twitter @JoeFautley to share my personal experiences and help spread awareness, acceptance and understanding of Autism across the wider SEND and education community. I have many years’ experiences of various advocacy and media work including featuring in videos, co-delivering national SEND training to hundreds of professionals across England and speaking at conferences.   Contact Joe https://x.com/JoeFautley joefautley@outlook.com   Useful Links Article for SEN Magazine (2024) Article for NASEN Connect Magazine (2023) Interview with SENDIASS North Yorkshire (2022) Joe's solo video published by the NHS (2021) Group video Joe is featured in published by the NHS (2021) Presentation from NASEN Live Conference (2021)   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.

Many of us take everyday tasks for granted, like standing up from a chair. However, for individuals with physical disabilities and complex needs, this simple act can be a significant challenge that not everyone can accomplish independently…yet. This week, we delve into the crucial role of functional movement in the lives of children with physical disabilities and complex needs. Our guest, Chloe Plummer from MOVE Europe, discusses ‘Why movement matters- the importance of providing functional Movement Opportunities Via Education’. She tells us how their innovative programme empowers children by developing essential skills such as sitting, standing, and walking. Chloe shares her personal experiences and insights on how tailored movement education can ensure individuals with physical disabilities are able to live fulfilling and independent lives. “With those motivations and the right attitude and approach, they can achieve some amazing things”. Chloe Plummer During our discussion Chloe covers: The significance of setting meaningful goals that resonate with each child's interests. Real-life success stories that illustrate the impact of functional movement. Insights into overcoming barriers and misconceptions about what children can achieve. The importance of integrating movement opportunities throughout the educational day. Listen to gain valuable perspectives on promoting independence through movement.   About Chloe Plummer MOVE Europe are a small charity working with over 160 special schools in the UK, enabling children with physical disabilities and complex needs to gain independent movement skills through the MOVE Programme. Our vision is for every disabled young person to have choice and opportunities by learning independent movement. We work towards this by training education and therapy professionals in the MOVE Programme and providing ongoing support so that they can achieve the best outcomes possible for the disabled young people they support. Chloe Plummer is the Events and Programme Coordinator (South) at MOVE Europe and is responsible for supporting both new and existing schools in the South of the country on their MOVE journey. Chloe has a background working with various disability organisations both locally and nationally over the last 8 years. As a result of her own lived experience of physical disability Chloe has a real passion for improving outcomes for all disabled people and also has first hand experience of the importance of providing movement opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities ensuring they are able to live fulfilled and independent lives. Chloe combines her experience and passion in her role at MOVE and is excited to be speaking on the SEND Cast!   Contact Chloe https://x.com/MOVEprogramme moveeurope.org.uk contact@moveeurope.org.uk   Useful Links MOVE Conference 2024   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.

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 your school.

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 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.

Ahead of Jane’s FREE SEND Briefing on 24 September, she joins Dale for this special episode to give an insight into what she will be presenting in her session ‘What will the new Government mean for SEND?’.  “I think what we’re going to see from this government is a real push down that early intervention route.” Jane Friswell Listen to hear Jane’s thoughts on the government changes, focus on inclusion, early intervention, resource allocation and more……  Useful Links  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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The SENCO role is unique and crucial, as SENCOs champion the needs of students who require additional support. However, other priorities in schools often mean that SENCOs themselves don't receive the support they need to be effective. To better champion these students, the SENCO's voice needs to be heard. But how do you, as a SENCO, ensure your voice is heard? In this week's podcast, Dale is joined by Ginny Bootman, a SENCO working across 4 schools. Ginny brings a wealth of experience and insight to discuss ‘Getting your voice heard as a SENCO’. Ginny points out that it could be as simple as getting a ‘yum yum’! Ginny explains that the key is to invest time in building relationships and having meaningful conversations. By breaking down barriers and ensuring everyone understands each other's perspectives, SENCOs can position themselves as valuable partners in supporting diverse learners. “I think when we're talking about getting our voice heard, actually it's about getting our voice heard with the most important people - the children”. Ginny Bootman By being heard and having their expertise recognised, SENCOs can drive better outcomes for students, reduce disruption, and foster stronger relationships with parents. Listen to the podcast to discover Ginny's strategies for getting your voice heard.   About Ginny Bootman I have been a teacher longer than I haven't, as a Headteacher, Senior Manager and Class Teacher and now as a SENCO of 4 Primary schools in Northamptonshire. My passion lies within all things concerned with empathy and the role which empathy plays in ensuring that all of those in school settings feel valued and listened to. I am an Associate of Undiscovered Country a team who help individuals manage change.   Contact Ginny http://www.ginnybootman.com ginnybootman10@gmail.com https://x.com/sencogirl   Useful Links A few months ago, Ginny released a new book 'Being a SENDCO: 113 tips for building relationships, saving time and changing lives'. It is an informative guide that identifies simple, tried and tested ways to build and cement strong relationships between all those who work with children with additional needs, whether they are teachers, parents, carers or outside agencies. https://www.crownhouse.co.uk/independent-thinking-on-being-a-sendco Exclusive discount for SENDcast listeners! Use code GINNY20 to save 20%   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.

At present, challenging behaviour in school is off the scale and largely this is due to unmet needs. You can’t ‘punish or reward the neurodivergent’ out of children, so the traditional methods of classroom management and behaviour control won’t work. Joining Dale today is Catrina Lowri, who shares her personal journey with behaviour management spanning over 25 years. Catrina provides a glimpse into her early experiences in the classroom, reflecting on the techniques she initially believed to be the "best" and how her perspective evolved throughout her career. From facing challenging situations like being mooned at to earning the nickname "Tough McGuff," Catrina has encountered a wide range of behavioural challenges. One of the eye-opening insights shared by Catrina is that the majority of challenging behaviour is triggered by the adults in the room. Through her experiences and ideas, she emphasises the transformative impact of unconditional positive regard and the profound difference that arises from making time for curiosity and reflection. By listening to her stories and perspectives, we gain valuable insights into the power of empathy, understanding, and self-reflection when addressing challenging behaviour.   About Catrina Lowri Catrina is a neurodivergent former SENCO and Advisory Teacher with a dual diagnosis of bipolar and dyslexia. She created her company; Neuroteachers to support schools and businesses with simple solutions to improve Neuro-inclusion.   Contact Catrina www.neuroteachers.com catrina@neuroteachers.com https://x.com/neuroteachers   Useful Links A controversial blog about behaviour   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.

For many of us, everyday tasks such as entering our PIN numbers, not exceeding the speed limit, food shopping or telling the time we take for granted. However, for individuals living with dyscalculia, these seemingly simple numerical activities can pose significant, and often debilitating, challenges. Dyscalculia affects 6-10% of the population (around 4 million people), the same proportion as dyslexia, but unlike dyslexia, most people haven’t heard of it. Dyscalculia is a little-known, much misunderstood and under-researched learning difficulty. Today, Peter Cherry joins us to give us an insight into what it’s like ‘Living with Dyscalculia’ along with Cat Eadle, co-founder of the Dyscalculia Network. Peter and Cat give us a great overview of dyscalculia and cover topics including: What is dyscalculia? The daily challenges faced when living with dyscalculia Plans to extend Maths education to 18 March 2022 was the first time it has been discussed in parliament The difficulties finding employment without a Maths GCSE Lack of awareness, support and understanding in schools and the workplace Practical tips and strategies Listen to this insightful discussion to learn about dyscalculia and help to ensure that those impacted by this learning difficulty receive the support, adjustments and respect they deserve. New episodes will still be going live over the Summer holiday so hopefully you’ll have some time to sit back and relax in the sunshine listening to more fantastic guests! Have a great Summer break!   About Peter Cherry Peter Cherry is a passionate volunteer for the Dyscalculia Network, where he serves as Chair of the Adults with Dyscalculia Advisory Board. His drive to raise awareness and advocate for dyscalculia has led him to write about his experiences in letters to the Guardian, in an article for Frame Magazine, and to be interviewed for pieces on dyscalculia in BBC News, BBC Sussex and the i Paper. He has ambitions to write a book on dyscalculia. Peter works as Assistant Director at the British Institute at Ankara, is author of an academic book published by Bloomsbury and holds a PhD in Comparative Literature from University of Edinburgh.   About Cat Eadle Cat Eadle is the co-founder of The Dyscalculia Network C.I.C and co-author, along with Prof. Steve Chinn, of the innovative 'Succeed with Dyscalculia' series of books. With a career spanning 29 years in education, Cat's unwavering dedication for supporting individuals with dyscalculia and maths difficulties underscores her extensive experience. Holding a Bachelor of Education from Oxford University, Cat then became a certified specialist in mathematics learning difficulties in 2003. She initially applied her expertise in school settings but in 2017, she established 'The Little Maths Room,' where she offers tutoring services to learners of all ages with dyscalculia and other Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLDs). Cat is passionately committed to helping learners to build solid mathematical foundations and has a unique ability to nurture confidence and competence in mathematics ensuring learning is both accessible and enjoyable. Cat now spends much of her time co-running and co-developing the Dyscalculia Network including planning Dyscalculia Day and co-organising the Dyscalculia Show at the NEC, Birmingham. Cat provides training sessions for educators and also provides CPD for workplaces and community organisations. She often consults with the Dyscalculia Network’s Adults with Dyscalculia Advisory Board to ensure that the voices and experiences of those with dyscalculia are heard.   Contact The Dyscalculia Network dyscalculianetwork.com peterjcherry0@gmail.com cat@dyscalculianetwork.com https://x.com/DyscalculiaNet1   Useful Links Succeed with Dyscalculia – Cat Eadle and Steve Chinn MDA- Maths and Dyscalculia Assessment- Emerson and Jennings- Jessica Kingsley Masking Maths: Dyscalculia and Me’ by Peter Cherry, page 43 What is dyscalculia? BBC article - Dyscalculia: Do Rishi Sunak's maths plans add up for everyone? BBC article - Parents call for maths learning support The Conversation - More maths testing could be good for primary schoolchildren – if done in the right way   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.

Children are not making as much progress communicating as they could be and are losing out on their ability to gain independence and autonomy. The failures in communication can lead to a lower expectation or achievement in academic and social areas. I'm excited to welcome Kerry Thalia to the podcast to discuss ‘Effective use of visuals to aid communication.’ This is Kerry's first podcast with the SENDcast, and we explore how we use visuals everyday with SEND, and more widely in teaching. Visual aids are invaluable tools, but all too often, they are treated as mere checkboxes instead of being utilised to genuinely enhance communication. This approach can inadvertently lead to underestimating an individual's abilities, causing missed opportunities for growth and development. This episode offers valuable insights on: How visuals are often misused or misrepresented The importance of the hierarchy of communication How we determine the best visuals for a person with SEND Effective use of the chosen visuals day to day Use of targets with appropriate progress Effective education of parents and guardians Communication between home and school By listening to this episode, you will gain a deeper understanding of how visuals can be harnessed to unlock the potential of children, bridging communication gaps and fostering a supportive learning environment.   About Kerry Thalia Kerry is an Autistic ADHD business owner who works to close the gap between research and practical teaching in classrooms by creating resources that support SEND children and young people access learning, communication and play. She has experience working in specialist and mainstream schools as well as directly with families.   Contact Kerry https://discoverinclusion.co.uk/ info@discoverinclusion.co.uk https://x.com/DiscoverIncl   Useful Links Discover Inclusion Training Bumper Book of Creative Learning Access to Academic Learning Conference (October 2024) Cough Drop AAC National Autistic Society, overview of visual supports and communication tools   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.