This podcast episode from our Twinkl SEND podcast "SEND in the Experts" hosted by Georgina Durrant, focuses on supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Georgina is joined by Joe Faultley, an autistic and neurodivergent advocate with dyspraxia and anxiety, who works at the Council for Disabled Children and is an active member of the SEND and education community. Joe shares his personal experiences, insights on autism advocacy, and advice for improving education for autistic students, emphasising the importance of supporting children and young people with sensory processing differences, communication needs, and anxiety. He highlights his work in promoting awareness, acceptance, and understanding of neurodiversity through media and delivering training. This episode offers practical tips for educators to better support SEND learners, in particular autistic learners.

Find out more about using Twinkl Symbols to support children and young people with communication here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/ypt3j

or download the free Twinkl Symbols AAC app: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1asrsn

Find out more about supporting autistic children and young people here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/140sia

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disability podcast, Georgina Durrant chats to Colin Foley from the ADHD foundation. They discuss what ADHD is and how ADHD can present. Colin shares advice on supporting children and young people with ADHD and they also dispel myths surrounding ADHD. They also discuss the impact that puberty can have on ADHD symptoms.

ADHD foundation's website: https://www.adhdfoundation.org.uk/

ADHD resources:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/krero

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Podcast, we switch things around and welcome host Georgina Durrant on the show as a guest for the first time. Our guest host is Emily Powel and she interviews Georgina about her latest book 'SEND Strategies for the Primary Years' published by Bloomsbury. With as many as 13% of children in schools in England receiving some form of SEN support, and waiting times of up to 3-5 years for a child to receive a formal diagnosis, Georgina explains that there is a critical need for strategies teachers can use in the classroom and parents can use at home now. SEND Strategies for the Primary Years aims to give teachers (and parents!) practical strategies that they can put in place while they wait for diagnoses, assessments or support. The strategies are practical, easy to implement and resource. Relevant to children who may be impacted by a range of SEND including autism, PDA, ADHD, dyslexia, DCD, dyscalculia, sensory processing differences, speech, language and communication needs and more. SEND Strategies for the Primary Years can be found here https://amzn.to/3QKZx48 And Georgina's website is www.senresourcesblog.com and you can find her on Twitter (X) www.twitter.com/senresourceblog and Facebook www.facebook.com/senresourcesblog

Isolation booths in schools: Helpful or harmful? In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilites (SEND) Podcast 'SEND in the experts with Georgina Durrant' Georgina speaks to Andrea Cartwright from Thrive all about the use of isolation and isolation booths in schools and the impacts on children.

Download our Lanyard Sized Restorative Conversation Prompts here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/flmig

Look at our infomation sheet on Tantrums vs Meltdowns here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1jcgli

And download our behaviour management strategies for de-escalation here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/15i83y

Thrive website:https://www.thriveapproach.com/

Previous podcast with Thrive on Trauma Informed Approaches here https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/send-in-the-experts-with-georgina-durrant/id1598292028?i=1000588238033

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disability Podcast, Georgina Durrant speaks to Gary Aubin, author of The Lone SENDCO about SEND CPD for teachers and SENDCOs. They discuss SENDCos leading school CPD, what effective SEND CPD looks like in schools, receiving SEND CPD and the SENDCO qualification (NASENCO) being replaced by the new SENDCO NPQ. Watch this episode on youtube here https://youtu.be/aaqxtTP-ng8

Have a look at Twinkl's free SEND CPD - Teach Meets here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/q6dxv

Listen to our previous episode about Being a SENDCO with Ginny Bootman here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/bevxs or watch it here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/16wshe

Gary's website can be found here https://sendmatters.co.uk/about/ and his book The Lone SENDCO here https://www.johncattbookshop.com/products/the-lone-sendco-questions-and-answers-for-the-busy-sendco

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Podcast, Georgina Durrant chats to Frances Akinde, a former Special School Headteacher and qualified SENDCO now SEND inspector and advisor. Georgina and Frances discuss what Neurodiversity Celebration Week means to her as a Neurodivergent educator as well as her tips for making schools more inclusive to both neurodivergent learners and neurodivergent staff.

Read all about Neurodiversity Celebration Week here

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1a1a9z

Download our Famous Neurodivergent Individuals School Display here

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/np149

Read this useful quick look document that provides guidance on supporting neurodivergent colleagues, or yourself, to flourish in interviews, day-to-day working, when in meetings and more. 

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/w4tpx

Frances Akinde's Website : https://inclusionht.wordpress.com

In this episode of our Special Educational Need and Disability (SEND) Podcast, Georgina Durrant chats to Bethan Grant and Sarah Timms from ERIC (the children's bowel and bladder charity) about everything from more children arriving in reception who aren't yet toilet trained (and how we can support them) to the controversy surrounding some schools locking toilets at lesson time (and it's impact on children with toileting needs).

Useful resources:

• Toilet procedure poster https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1jmamv
• Toilet Social Situation https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/wdpp9
• Using the toilet resource pack https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/yb4rm
• Toilet readiness assessment https://eric.org.uk/toilet-readiness-assessment/
• Individual health care plan https://eric.org.uk/individual-healthcare-plan/
• Getting ready for school factsheet https://eric.org.uk/potty-training/toilets-and-school-readiness/
• A parent Sam (who is also an advisor on ERIC's Helpline) talking about how she worked with school staff to make toileting at school work for their child https://vimeo.com/860155964
• School Toilet Policy: https://eric.org.uk/information/school-toilet-policy/

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disability Podcast, Georgina Durrant chats to author and SENDCO, Ginny Bootman about being a SENDCO. Ginny provides advice about developing and maintaining good home-school relationships as well as practical advice on managing SENDCO workload and prioritising tasks.

Resources:

• SENDCO Time Management Resource https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/mdz0w

• Ofsted Questions for SENDCOs - https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/vuo1f

• Applying for an EHCP- https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/c0crj

Other Links:

Ginny's Book

Ginny's Website

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Podcast, Georgina Durrant is joined by Dr Gina Gómez de la Cuesta to discuss LEGO® - based therapy. Gina explains the origins and aims of LEGO® - based therapy, who can benefit from it and how to ensure it is neurodiversity-affirming. Gina is the founderand director of Play Included® and her Brick-by-Brick® programme is the only LEGO® - based therapy endorsed by the LEGO Foundation. She talks us through how teachers can set up LEGO® - based therapy at school and gives us her top tips for getting it right.

Links mentioned in the podcast:

Play Included® Website

Play Included® Youtube Channel

LEGO Foundation website

Relevant resources:

Building Brick Therapy Resource Pack

Building Brick Therapy Information Sheet

Building Brick Therapy Key Word Cards

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Podcast Georgina Durrant chats to Sarah Johnson all about SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs). They discuss what SEMH means and how teachers can best support children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs. In this episode Sarah provides advice and information specifically on anxiety, Emotionally Based School Avoidances (EBSA), phobias, social anxiety and situational mutism.

Useful resources linked to this episode:

• Supporting Children with Emotionally Based School Avoidance CPD Video
• Emotional Self-Regulation and Co-Regulation: What are they, and how can we use them with learners with SEND?
• Emotional Triggers: What Pushes My Buttons Chart and Activity

Sarah Johnson's Website

Sarah Johnson's Books

There are more children with DLD (Developmental Language Disorder) than there are autistic children and dyslexic children, yet DLD is still relatively unknown. In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast, Georgina Durrant speaks to Louise Burton from Speech and Language Link to find out what DLD is, its impacts and what schools can do to support children and young people with DLD. 

DLD resources:

Developmental Language Disorder Activity Pack

Development Language Disorder (DLD) Mind Map

Language Disorder Mind Map

Relevant links:

Speech and Language Link

RADLD

NAPLIC

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast, Georgina Durrant is joined by returning guest Nikki Saunders, who shares the exciting news that her Children’s Books (The Eddie Series) aimed at families of autistic children have now become a Children’s TV series on Sky Kids!

 ‘Ready Eddie Go!’ follows 6-year-old Eddie who is autistic, as he navigates everyday real-life experiences for the very first time, everything from getting his hair cut to trying new food. During the podcast, Nikki Saunders discusses the importance of representation of autistic children on TV and taking a neuro-affirming approach. She shares a clip of the programme and explains how each episode, like a social situation, gives children strategies to manage new and different experiences. 

Ready Eddie Go! Resources to download for your home or classroom:

Sensory and Emotional Awareness Activities

Visual Timetable

My 'Ask for Help' Phrases

Explaining Autism to My Friends

Previous podcast episode with Nikki Saunders

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) podcast, Georgina Durrant chats to the CEO of nasen. They discuss her career, her passion for supporting children and young people with SEND and her vision for the future of SEND education in the UK. They also discuss the nasen awards, nasen Live and the nasen assured status that Twinkl Symbols received.

nasen assured Twinkl Symbols: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/symbols Twinkl Symbols is a collection of visual symbols designed to support communication for individuals with speech and language difficulties or special educational needs (SEND), allowing them to express themselves through pictures and visual representations, often used in the form of communication boards or books created through the Twinkl Symbols app or web tool; essentially, it's a system to aid communication through visual imagery. 

SEND Small Steps resources - created for learners who need clear, structured lessons in maths that are simple and don't cause visual stress.: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1ia65m

nasen website https://nasen.org.uk/

In this 'Back to School' episode, Georgina Durrant is joined by Dr Emma Kell, who shares fantastic, practical advice about teacher/SENDCO wellbeing. They discuss the importance of well-being not being an 'add on' but woven through the school culture. They also chat about the common causes of stress for teachers (including Ofsted) and Emma's top tips for surviving teaching without 'imploding, exploding or walking away'.

Relevant resources linked to this episode:

• Staff Wellbeing in School Pack of Resources
• Staff Wellbeing: You Are Not Superhuman
• Staff Wellbeing: Self-Assessment and Evaluation Tool
• Dr Emma Kell's website (includes links to her books)

*Content Warning: This episode of SEND in the experts discusses topics which some listeners may find distressing.

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast, Georgina Durrant chats to Robert White. Robert White describes himself as ‘the only Asperger, gay, dyslexic, cross-lateral, quarter- welsh, webbed-toed, hyper- sensitive, Gluten-intolerant, pseudo-genius, musical comedian there is…. Probably’ and you probably know him from his hilarious performances on Britain’s Got Talent in 2018 where he gained second place. Robert discusses the difficulties he faced growing up as an undiagnosed autistic and dyslexic child and reflects on the support that school could have provided to help him.

Useful resources linked to this episode:

• Supporting Pupils on the Autism Spectrum CPD Training Pack
• CPD: Supporting Autistic Pupils to Thrive
• Supporting Pupils with Dyslexia CPD Training Complete Pack
• Robert White's Website

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disability Podcast, Georgina Durrant chats to Louisa Reeves from the charity Speech and Language UK (formerly ICAN). Louisa provides an overview of the various Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) (including Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)). She explains how to identify children with SLCN in the classroom, the process for formal diagnosis and what teachers can do to support these children in school.

Relevant Resources Linked to this episode:

• Free Speech and Language Teaching Pack

• Free Speech and Language Speech Sound Intervention Boost Taster Pack

• Speech and Language Concerns Checklist

• SLCN - Language Development INSET PowerPoint Pack

• Speech and Language Uk's Website

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast. Georgina Durrant chats to Tina Coope, education lead of PANS/PANDAS UK - the only UK charity supporting children and families living with the neuropsychiatric conditions PANS and PANDAS.

PANS and PANDAS are a set of acute onset neuropsychiatric conditions that may include the development of OCD, tics or severe eating restrictions, alongside cognitive, behavioural and neurological symptoms. 

They can cause severe difficulties with learning, attending school and being able to do age-appropriate activities.

Tina explains what PANS/PANDAS are, the impact they can have on children, the importance of spotting early signs and how teachers can support children with PANS/PANDAS in the classroom.

Relevant Resources & Links

• PANS and PANDAS Information and CPD Pack

• Article about PANS and PANDAS

• Hidden Disabilities Mind Map
• Home & School: Spotting the Early Signs of PANS/PANDAS

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast. Georgina Durrant chats to deaf activist, Samantha Baines, a multi award-winning author, actress and broadcaster. She is the author of critically acclaimed children's books with Deaf main characters. You may recognise her from appearances on ITV's Loose Women, Sky News and Andrew Neil's This Week or acting roles in Netflix’s The Crown, Call the Midwife, Silent Witness and Magic Mike Live (directed by Channing Tatum). She is a regular on BBC radio stations.

They discuss tinnitus, hearing aids, British Sign Language (BSL) and her experience of being deaf. Samantha also provides really useful advice for teachers on how to support D/deaf children and young people in the classroom.

Full Transcript Available here: Click on the 'More Downloads' option to find the Transcript version

Resources linked to this episode:

• British Sign Language BSL Greetings Display Pack
• Deaf Awareness Resource Pack
• Being Part of a Deaf Community Activity Pack
• Samantha Baines' Website (including links to her books)

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast, SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant, Georgina Durrant chats to Suzy Rowland. Suzy is an author, Autism & ADHD Specialist and Speaker and founder of the #happyinschool project. Georgina and Suzy discuss Neurodiversity, Race and Exclusions.

Relevant Resources & Articles:

• What is Neurodiversity? CPD.
• Autism - Spotting the Signs and Developing Classroom Strategies - Inclusion CPD.
• SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant Podcast Episode 2: Anxious Non-attenders with Catrina Lowri

In this special episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast. Georgina Durrant discusses the SEND & AP Improvement Plan with Claire Coutinho. Claire Coutinho is Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for children, families and wellbeing).

They discuss the problems the SEND review identified with the current SEND system and the changes the government is planning to make to improve SEND support and services for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities as part of the SEND & AP Improvement Plan.

Further reading & resources:

• 'Over £10 billion to be invested in SEND and AP by 2024' Article on the SEND & AP Improvement Plan by Lauren Brown
• 'What do parents think about the government’s SEND reforms?' Article by Lucy Carman
• SEND & AP Improvement Plan (link to government website)

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast, SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant Klaudia Matasovska discusses the intersection between LGBT+ and SEND. Klaudia Matasovska is an Associate Lecturer in Education, Inclusion and SEND at the University of Derby. She also works as a researcher at Goldsmiths, University of London. She is a doctoral student in the Department of Educational Studies at Goldsmiths, University of London. Her research centres around LGBT+ inclusion with pupils with SEND.

Relevant Resources & Articles:

• How Can We Teach LGBT+ History Month With Learners with SEND?
• LGBTQ+ Definition Matching Cards
• Child-Friendly Explanations for LGBT+ Terms

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast, SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant. Georgina Durrant chats to Sara Alston about how to work effectively with teaching assistants and how to create an inclusive classroom.

Relevant Resources & Articles:

Guide to Effective Differentiation in the Classroom

Top Tips for Working with Other Adults in the Classroom

SEND in the Experts episode with Abigail Gray about Inclusion

*Content Warning: This episode of SEND in the experts discusses topics which some listeners may find distressing.

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast, SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant. Georgina Durrant chats to Shaun Flores about his lived experience of having OCD. Shaun explains what OCD is, the impacts it can have on people's lives and provides advice for schools on how to support children and young people with OCD.

Relevant Resources & Articles:

• 'Are you OCD Aware?' Teacher Guidance A4 Poster
• Spotting the Signs - When might 'Quirks' become OCD? (Article)
• The effect of OCD on families: A Sibling's Story (Article)
• OCD Action Website
• OCD UK

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Podcast, Georgina Durrant was delighted to be joined by Dr Gavin Morgan, chair of the Division of Educational and Child Psychology at the British Psychological Society.

Georgina and Gavin discuss a whole range of topics, including:

• The role of an Educational Psychologist (EP) and when teachers might need them.
• When EPs are needed for EHC needs assessments
• The impact of a shortage of EPs
• Workload of EPs
• How schools can work effectively with EPs.

Find all of Twinkl's inclusion resources here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1a5ag2

• Find out how to apply for EHC needs assessment as a SENDCO here : https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/15d5ze
• Learn and understand what is involved in the EHC Plan review process here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/xchp3
• Learn more about the role of an educational psychologist here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1c4mxi

In this Christmas Special episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast, Georgina Durrant is joined by autistic comedian Elora Dodd to talk about all things Christmas! Elora shares her lived experience of being autistic and provides useful advice about helping autistic children navigate the festive period. Make sure you listen! Elora is an autistic comedian with half a million followers online. You can find her under her name, or her Digital pseudonym “Online 1 Room Schoolhouse”

Links to relevant resources to help autistic children over the festive period:

• Guide for Parents: Supporting Your Autistic Child at Christmastime

• Visual Timetable for Christmas Day

• School Christmas Performance Social Situation

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast, Georgina Durrant chats to Mel Fisher from Thrive all about Trauma-Sensitive (Trauma Informed) approaches. They discuss why behaviour is communication, why trauma-informed approaches benefit children, common misconceptions of trauma informed approaches and much much more.

Relevant resources:

• Thrive website
• CPD - Developing Trauma Informed Approaches
• Lanyard-Sized Restorative Conversation Prompts
• CPD - Developing Restorative Practise

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast 'SEND in the experts with Georgina Durrant', Georgina Durrant chats to Nana Marfo a disability advocate who speaks on the issues faced by disabled people within the labor market and in general society. Nana's fight for a voice and presence all stem from his own experience living with a permanent tracheostomy tube that enables him to breath and talk.

Resources linked to this episode:

• Tracheostomy Teaching Resource: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/tibfs
• Disability Awareness Powerpoint https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1l0p8m
• Education Health Care Plan Information Resource Pack https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1188d8
• International Day of Persons with Disabilities Activity Pack https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/10xm5x

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast 'SEND in the experts with Georgina Durrant', Georgina Durrant chats to Kim Griffin an occupational therapist and founder of GriffinOT. They chat about the role of an Occupational Therapist (OT), what is meant by sensory processing differences, dyspraxia and much more!

Resources linked to this episode:

• Identifying Sensory Needs- Adult Guidance and Checklist
• Movement Break Cards
• Dyspraxia Strategies and Information

Kim's website can be found here GriffinOT website

Her Crocodile Snap video that we discussed on her Youtube Channel can be found here.

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast 'SEND in the experts with Georgina Durrant', Georgina Durrant chats to Helen Evans (Chief Executive of the PDA Society) and Jilly Davis (Education Advisor at the PDA Society) all about Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA).

Resources on Twinkl to support learners with a PDA Profile:

• Top Tips For Supporting PDA in the Classroom
• What is PDA? (Adult Guidance)
• PDA Mind map (Adult Guidance)

Link to the PDA Society : https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/

Link to the PANDA approaches mentioned in the podcast episode: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/resources/helpful-approaches-infographic/

In this special episode of SEND in the experts with Georgina Durrant, Georgina chats to Dr Helen Ross, Conservative MP Matt Hancock and Labour MP Sharon Hodgson about the Dyslexia Screening Bill that proposes that all children are screened for dyslexia by the end of primary school.

Resources on Twinkl to support learners with Dyslexia:

• Dyslexia Intervention: Simple Reading Comprehension - Complete Pack
• Supporting Dyslexia in KS2 Resource Pack
• Dyslexia Reading Fluency Intervention Complete Pack

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs Podcast, Georgina Durrant is joined by the inspirational Musharaf Asghar. Musharaf Asghar captured the hearts of the nation in 2013 when, as a schoolboy, he appeared on our screens in the award-winning Channel 4 series Educating Yorkshire. Musharaf, also known as Mushy, joined the series to raise awareness of stammering. Mushy sprang onto our screens at the age of 16. Now 25, he is a keynote speaker, journalist and sports writer. Georgina asks Mushy about what it was like growing up with a stammer, his time on Educating Yorkshire and how he is continuing to raise awareness of stammering.

Resources on Twinkl to support learners with a stammer:

• Stammering: How to Help.
• What is it like to stammer?
• What is a stammer?

In this episode Georgina Durrant chats to Lizzie Acker, star of Channel 4's The Great British Bake off. They discuss Lizzie's experiences growing up with dyslexia, ADHD and dyspraxia. They also discuss her time on Channel 4's The Great British Bake off and the amazing cake she baked to celebrate neurodiversity. Don't miss this episode of our Special Educational Needs podcast.

Extra resources:

• Video Interview with Lizzie Acker
• Older Learners Resource - What is Neurodiversity
• Barriers to Learning Information on Dyslexia Booklet

In this episode, Georgina Durrant talks to Nikki Saunders. Nikki is the author of The Eddie Series, and is a passionate advocate for the autistic community. She has two children and has worked in Special Education. Since the publication of her first book, she has been on a mission to improve provision for autistic children whilst improving awareness of - and empathy for, the autistic experience in society at large. Georgina and Nikki chat about how and when to explain an autism diagnosis to children, Nikki's books and the other resources out there for autistic children.

Eddie Series Resources to support autistic children and young people:

• The Eddie Series: Visual Timetable
• The Eddie Series: Explaining Autism to My Friends
• The Eddie Series: Sensory and Emotional Awareness Activities

Sue Atkins, 'This Morning', BBC Radio and Disney Family Parenting Expert and former deputy head teacher, joins Georgina Durrant in this episode of 'SEND in the Experts'. They chat about mental health and wellbeing, inclusion, the effects of the pandemic on children and much more. A great listen for teachers, TAs, SENDCos and head teachers.

Relevant teaching resources:

• Resilience PowerPoint
• Social Situation: Parents Getting Divorced Splitting Up
• An Introduction to Mental Health - PowerPoint

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Podcast, Georgina Durrant is joined by Jo, the CEO of the Down Syndrome Charity Learn and Thrive. Jo is Mum to a teenager with Down's syndrome. Much of the inspiration for the Learn and Thrive charity's projects come from her real-life experience of supporting a wide range of young people with Down's syndrome through her work in the charity and education sectors. The charity provides free online educational resources for the SEN community through two projects: Teach Me Too for early years (find out more here  https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/ppb1s ) and Learning for Life (find out more here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/zojn1) for young people (find out more here)

Georgina and Jo discuss what Down's Syndrome is and the common misconceptions. They also discuss Learn and Thrive's resources and the importance of teaching RSE to all children. Jo provides fantastic advice on how to talk about puberty and relationships with children and young people with Down's Syndrome and other SEND. Listen to our previous episode on Down's Syndrom here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/rvi19

Cathy Wassell, CEO of Autistic Girls Network, joins Georgina Durrant in this episode of 'SEND in the Experts' to discuss autism in girls. They chat about late diagnosis, mental health impacts, masking, school support and much more. An important listen for teachers, TAs, SENDCos and head teachers.

Teaching resources to support autistic girls:

• Autism and Girls Resource Pack
• Autism Spectrum Mind Map (Poster for teachers and parents)
• Autism Strategies and Information Adult Guidance

Hayley Newman joins us on our third episode of SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant. Hayley writes the award-winning blog 'Downs Side Up' about life with her daughter Natty who has Down’s syndrome. She has campaigned tirelessly for inclusion, equitable education and healthcare over the years, and trains medics and teachers to this aim.

In this episode we chat about Down's Syndrome, inclusion, school transitions and much more. An episode not to be missed!

Resources of Twinkl about Down's Syndrome:

• Down's Syndrome Inset Training Powerpoint
• Down's Syndrome - A General Guide
• Facts about Down's Syndrome - Poster

Catrina Lowri, founder of Neuroteachers joins us on our second episode of SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant. We chat about Catrina's experiences of being Neurodivergent herself as well as her teaching career, dyslexia, autism and attendance. An insightful conversation about supporting and teaching children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

Useful relevant resources:

• Autism Strategies and Information Adult Guidance
• Barriers to Learning Information on Dyslexia Booklet
• Neurodiversity Teaching Pack

Abigail Gray, author of 'The Effective Teaching Assistant' and 'Effective Differentiation' joins us on our first SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant episode. We chat about inclusion, differentiation, deployment of teaching assistants, dyslexia and much more. It's an episode not to be missed!

Useful related resources:

• Webinar: Everything You Need to be Genuinely Inclusive (Inclusion)
• Teacher Handbook: SEND
• Strategies to Support Teaching Pupils with SEND

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) podcast (SEND in the experts with Georgina Durrant), Georgina Durrant is joined by Natalie Packer. Natalie is an Independent Education

Consultant, specialising in SEND and school improvement. She develops and delivers a wide

range of training and support, including SEND reviews, to schools and multi-academy trusts. She

works closely with several trusts to support their strategic development of SEND and is a trustee

of Learn-AT in Leicestershire. She is an associate for national organisations Nasen, Whole

Education, Forum Strategy and Leadership Matters. Natalie regularly writes online articles for

Optimus and The Key for School Leaders and is the author of The Perfect SENCO, The Teacher’s Guide to SEN and her latest book 'Beyond Boundaries: Leading Great SEND Provision across a Trust'

Other podcast episodes mentioned and related:

Gary Aubin - Lone SENDCO : https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/send-in-the-experts-with-georgina-durrant/id1598292028?i=1000651993889

Ginny Bootman - Being a SENDCO :https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/send-in-the-experts-with-georgina-durrant/id1598292028?i=1000641910100

*Disclaimer: Please be aware that this episode contains strong language.*

In this episode, of our special educational needs and disability podcast, SEND in the experts with Georgina Durrant. Georgina speaks to Sue Cowley! Sue Cowley is a presenter, teacher trainer and author of more than 30 books on education. A qualified early years teacher, she has worked in early years settings, primary, secondary and international schools in the UK and overseas. Sue’s international bestseller 'Getting Your Class to Behave' has been translated into ten languages and is now in its sixth edition.

Sue has written articles for the TES, Teach Primary, Teach Early Years, Nursery World, Early Years Educator and Teach Secondary. She has featured in numerous education videos and was a regular presenter on Teachers TV. 

She has also written curriculum materials for Oxford University Press. Sue works internationally as a presenter, providing keynotes and training for organisations including Teach First, the NEU, Swim England and The Football Association. Sue has been part of the leadership team helped at her local early years setting for the past 15 years.

Georgina and Sue discuss strategies for good class behaviour, how to ensure you're neuro-affirming in your approach and the importance of clear expectations.

Find 'Getting Your Class to Behave' here and 'Learning Behaviours: A Practical Guide to Self-Regulation in the Early Years' here

Sue Cowley's website can be found here suecowley.co.uk

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disability Podcast, Georgina Durrant is joined by Steph Curtis. Steph, mother of two teenage girls aged 18 and 16, launched her blog, "Steph's Two Girls" on the day her younger daughter Sasha was diagnosed with autism at the age of 2.

Steph experienced a ‘lightbulb moment’ soon after when she came across descriptions of a specific profile of autism known as Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). The features of PDA resonated deeply with her, as they accurately characterised her daughter's unique challenges. This discovery served as a catalyst, inspiring Steph to utilise her blog as a wider platform for sharing her family's experiences in order to help others understand more about PDA.

With her newly published book "PDA in the Family" Steph has shared her family’s experiences since that day of diagnosis, in the hope that this will help families who are navigating PDA feel less alone. With unique insights from Sasha's father, sister, and Sasha herself, this book offers insider knowledge and advice from one family to another and provides a greater understanding for those working with PDA children.

Listen to our Podcast episode with the PDA society here : https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/send-in-the-experts-with-georgina-durrant/id1598292028?i=1000579397090

Find the PDA Society Podcast episode also on the Twinkl website here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/ujlk5

Find out more about the PANDA approach for supporting children with a PDA profile here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1jp34k

As well as how to 'pick battles' when supporting a child with a PDA profile here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/tvmcu

Steph's website can be found here https://www.stephstwogirls.co.uk/ and her book here https://www.stephstwogirls.co.uk/2023/10/pda-in-family-book.html

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) podcast 'SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant', Georgina Durrant chats to Stephanie Smith, Head of School at Cambridgeshire’s first state-maintained special free school provision for young autistic students the 'Cavendish School'

They discuss everything about making schools better for autistic children and young people.. from removing attendance barriers and supporting EBSA, trauma-informed approaches, creating a sensory space/room, working in partnership with autistic learner's parents, lunchtimes, playtimes to developing life-skills in a practical and authentic way. 

Useful links: 

⁠SEND Small Steps Curriculum 

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/10m1g3

⁠Sensory Room Information⁠

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/kj4fg

⁠Sensory Profile Assessment⁠

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/gcbif

⁠Cavendish School's Website:⁠

⁠https://thecavendishschool.org.uk⁠

In this episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) podcast 'SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant', Georgina Durrant chats to 2x Paralympic Gold Medallist Danielle Brown MBE! Danielle Brown MBE is an award winning children's author. She's also a double Paralympic gold medallist in archery, five-time World Champion and was World Number 1 for her entire career. , she made history when she became the first disabled athlete to represent England - and won gold - in an able-bodied category at the Commonwealth Games. Danielle shares her advice on how to ensure teaching PE and sports in schools is inclusive of children with SEND.

Inclusive Sports Resources for the classroom https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/139a8m

Paralympic Resources for the classroom 

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1beqxm

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/spql0

Danielle Brown's website and books https://www.daniellebrown.co.uk

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 it
• The future of EHCPs and legal protections for learners with SEND
• What true inclusion in schools should look like
• The committee's recommendations for a national framework for SEND support
• Mandatory SEND training for teachers, leaders, and inspectors
• How Ontario’s inclusive model could inspire UK reform

Whether 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

In 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 children
• How sensory challenges impact learning, behaviour, and social interaction
• Effective strategies and interventions for supporting sensory needs
• The role of Occupational Therapists in SEND support
• Creating sensory-friendly environments at home and in school
• Common myths and misconceptions about sensory processing
• Advice for parents, carers, and educators
• The future of sensory integration research and inclusive education

Whether 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 

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

SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant – Featuring Lisa Henshall on Inclusive Resource Provisions

In this insightful episode of SEND in the Experts, host Georgina Durrant, Twinkl's National Inclusion Lead, published author & former teacher/ SENDCO, welcomes the passionate and experienced Lisa Henshall to the podcast. Brought to you by Twinkl, this SEND podcast series is dedicated to supporting educators, parents, and professionals working with children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Whether you're on your daily commute or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this episode offers valuable guidance and inspiration.

Lisa Henshall shares her journey and deep-rooted passion for inclusive education, offering a wealth of knowledge on how to better support learners with SEND. The conversation dives into the government's push for greater inclusivity in mainstream schools and explores the growing role of resource provisions, specialist units within mainstream settings designed to meet the needs of some learner with SEND. Lisa explains what resource provisions are, how they function, and how and why they are a vital part of inclusive education.

Listeners will also gain practical insights into how to ensure these provisions foster true inclusion, not just for the learners who access them, but for the entire school community. Lisa highlights the importance of collaboration, training, and thoughtful planning in creating inclusive environments that benefit all students.

Plus, Lisa discusses her recent collaboration with Twinkl alongside colleagues Louise Lawrence and Sarah Camacho. Together, they developed a powerful new resource packed with top tips for setting up a successful resource provision which can be found here https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/cxiob

This episode is a must-listen for school leaders, SENDCOs, and educators looking to make meaningful change.

In this episode of Twinkl's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) podcast, SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant, Georgina chats to Gary Aubin all about supporting children with SEND with transitions. Whether that be moving from primary to secondary school or from one year group to another.

• Twinkl Symbols - My New School Transition Booklet https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/9cvge
• SEND Transitions- Top Tips for Moving to a new class
• https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/7lcjw
• Top Tips for Supporting children moving to secondary school:
• https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/ue2gy

In this podcast episode of our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) podcast, Georgina Durrant and Lynn How explore the realities of being a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCO). Lynn shares her passion for supporting children and young people with SEND, offering insights into the rewards and challenges of the role. She discusses the highlights of being a SENDCO, the pressures they face, and the ways they navigate their responsibilities, including the graduated approach (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/nckeg) and the Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) process. Lynn provides guidance on the EHCP process (more information can be found here

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/15qn9c ) The episode also delves into the importance of collaboration with teachers, senior leadership teams (SLT), and parents, as well as practical advice on managing wellbeing in a demanding profession. A must-listen for educators and anyone invested in inclusive education.

EHCP Course: https://twinklpd.com/ehc-plan-explained-offer

Information on the Graduated Approach: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/nckeg

Lynn's links: https://positiveyoungmind.com/