SEND Learning Week - Launch Event

READY TO LEARN, READY TO THRIVE

Join us for a transformative week of learning webinars dedicated to fostering emotional resilience and school readiness within the world of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Throughout the week, we will explore strategies and tools to empower children and young people, helping them navigate the challenges of life with confidence and strength. Our expert speakers will share insights on building emotional resilience, creating inclusive environments, and supporting the unique needs of children and young people with SEND.

Whether you're an educator or a practitioner, this week promises valuable knowledge and practical approaches to ensure every child thrives. Let's come together to build a resilient and inclusive future for all.

Agenda for Launch Event:

08:30 Arrivals

09:00 Welcome from Lauren Sheppard

Lauren Sheppard is the Acting Head of Service for Quality Assurance and Practice at Hertfordshire County Council, and plays a vital role in optimising the journeys of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and those in Social Care.

09:10 SEND Partnership Working (Andy Lawrence & Kimberley Ellis, HCC)

Hertfordshire County Council’s Children’s Services is currently engaged in extensive SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) partnership working, aimed at transforming outcomes for children and young people across the county. 0-25 Together lead Andy Lawrence and Trauma Service Lead & Trainer Kimberley Ellis will discuss some of the co-production and support work currently ongoing.

09:40 Adapted Interventions to suit CYP Interests & Increase Engagement (Amy Foster & Aisha Gorman, PALMS)

PALMS (Positive Behaviour, Autism, Learning Disability, and Mental Health Service) is a specialized service in Hertfordshire that provides support for children and young people aged 0-19 with global learning disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorders.

10:10 20-minute break

Teas/coffees and biscuits provided

10:30 The FAB Club (Sally Glossop, HCC) ft. young speakers

FAB Club is a youth group specifically designed for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. FAB Club is For Any Body, and represents Family, Acceptance and Belonging. It is a place where magic happens and children and young people have the opportunity to feel a part of something, be challenged and grow through activities and adventures.

11:00 Labelled as complex, but complex to who? Unpacking complexity in SEND (Ryan Carty, Expert by Experience, Changing Futures Specialist Team Learning Lead [Westminster City Council], Director and Co-Founder of EYC Project)

Ryan Carty is a dedicated specialist practitioner in Westminster City Council’s Changing Futures team, supporting young adults facing multiple disadvantages. He has a background in education, mentorship, and sports, and holds a Master's degree in Education from UCL.

The EYC Project, inspired by his mother, aims to drive positive change through education, and supports young people aged 12-25 who are exposed to multiple disadvantages, offering high-quality interventions and advocating for systems change. Ryan's personal journey, marked by various challenges, has led him to become a voice for those he serves, aiming to positively impact the lives of as many young people as possible.

11:55 Conclusion by Miranda Gittos

Miranda Gittos is the Director for Specialist Services & Commissioning at Hertfordshire County Council, and a key leader in shaping services for children and young people with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and those in social care.

12:00 End of Launch Event

DISCLAIMER

Please be advised that by attending any of the Learning Week events—including the in-person launch event and all virtual webinars—you are giving your consent to be recorded and/or photographed.

Photographs and video footage will be captured during the in-person launch event. These may be used for promotional and marketing purposes, including but not limited to internal communications, social media, and future event materials.

All virtual sessions will be recorded and made available on the SEND Learning Hub for future viewing and learning purposes.

By participating in any part of Learning Week, you acknowledge and agree to the use of your image, voice, and likeness as described above.

If you have any concerns or wish to opt out, please contact the event organisers in advance.