The SENDcast

Understanding Epilepsy's Impact on Children and Young People with Catherine Hodder

26 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In recognition of International Purple Day today, Catherine Hodder, Head of Policy, Influencing & Youth Voice at Young Epilepsy joins Dale to discuss ...

Supporting Children with Down syndrome to Reach Their Full Potential with Sarah Holton

19 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Did you know that children with Down syndrome have a different learning profile? Ahead of World Down Syndrome Day this Saturday, Sarah Holton from Dow...

*Special Episode* - Fixing a Broken System: Response to the White Paper

17 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

This is a special episode focusing on the new White Paper and the SEND reforms consultation. Last week, I published my response and reflections — no...

Young Carers: Voices That Matter with Kasia Thompson

12 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Young carers often take on adult responsibilities, balancing school, social life, and caregiving, all while navigating the emotional impact of disabil...

*Special Episode* National Neurodiversity Shows 2026 with Steph Barnett

10 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this special episode of SENDcast, host Dale speaks with Steph Barnett, the show planner for the National Neurodiversity Shows. Together, they discu...

Working Effectively with TAs with Sara Alston

05 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Teaching Assistants (TAs) are the unsung heroes in schools - and an incredible resource. Yet their impact is often limited when teachers aren't equipp...

The Effectiveness of EHCPs. The EHCP process and the SEND reform with Nana-Kofi Okyere

26 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

"We have an EHCP, so we have something to work from, but almost every local authority allocates and does things in a different way." Nana-Kofi Ok...

SEND in Later Education: The Facts, Laws, and Real Stories with Chris Lefcovitch

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this latest episode, Chris Lefcovitch, Head of Additional Learning Support at Milton Keynes College joins Dale. In this insightful discussion, they...

Screens, Meltdowns and Power Struggles with Dr Daniel Weisberg

12 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

I'm excited to share this week's episode, which I've been eagerly anticipating! Like many parents, screen time is a contentious topic in my household....

Therapeutic Effect of Birds of Prey with Angela Norwood

05 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever listened to a podcast featuring a guest owl? Today, you're in for a treat - twoo! Angela Norwood, Managing Director of Berkshire Birds o...

Are you a Sensory Elephant or Mouse? with Ali Neal

29 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In our latest podcast, Ali Neal, an occupational therapist specialising in sensory processing, joins Dale to discuss the intriguing concept of sensory...

Supporting Neurodiverse Girls Through Puberty and the Transition to Secondary School with Kim McCabe

22 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Puberty can be a challenging time, but for neurodiverse girls, it can feel like navigating a storm without a map. As they move from the relative safet...

Charting a Neuroinclusive Future: Why Systemic Change Starts with Education with Liz Day, Victoria Bagnall, Pete Jarrett and Fintan O'Regan

15 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Inclusion in education isn't working as well as it should. Despite good intentions, many neurodivergent young people are still being left behind, lead...

Navigating Ofsted's New Framework: What You Need to Know for SEND with Adam Sproston

08 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

With the launch of the new Ofsted framework at the end of last year, you may be wondering what this means for SEND. In today's episode, Ofsted join us...

From Classroom to Career: The Power of Supported Internships with Kirsty Matthews

01 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Happy New Year! I'm thrilled to kick off 2026 with our first podcast episode this year! Whether you're recovering from last night's celebrations or en...

Helping Learning To Stick with Dr Susie Nyman

18 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

As we approach the end of 2025, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt thanks to you - our wonderful listeners! It has been another remarka...

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

11 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Despite being central to support for children with SEND, the Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) process is often overwhelming and confusing for f...

Sensory Struggles With Eating with Joanna Grace

04 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Can you believe it's already December? With the holiday season upon us, festivities often revolve around food, which can be particularly stressful for...

Adaptive Teaching Through 5 Phases of the Lesson with Sara Alston

27 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In our latest episode of the SENDcast, we tackle an important topic that often gets lost in the debate over terminology: the practical aspects of diff...

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

20 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

It can be difficult to understand exactly how much we use our senses for all daily tasks. Today, Dale discusses the fascinating world of sensory proce...

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

13 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Navigating the SEND system can be overwhelming, and many parents find themselves without essential information until it's too late. Unfortunately, the...

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

09 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Have you heard of the TV show The Assembly? I'm thrilled to announce that the series director, Céin McGillicuddy and his creative partner Andy Kinnea...

Exploring Neuro-Dramatic-Play with Dr Sue Jennings

06 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this week's episode, Dr Sue Jennings, a leading expert in neuro-dramatic play and drama therapy, joins Dale to explore Neuro-Dramatic-Play (NDP). S...

Specialist Online Provision for Neurodivergent Learners with Cathy Wassell

30 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The mainstream school environment can be overwhelming for many neurodivergent students, with sensory overload and social challenges often creating sig...

The Experiences of Girls in School with Diagnosed/Undiagnosed ADHD with Louise Belshaw

23 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

With ADHD awareness month upon us, we wanted to discuss the important topic of 'the experiences of girls in school with diagnosed/undiagnosed ADHD'. I...

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

16 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This OCD Awareness Week, I invite you to listen to our latest episode of the SENDcast, featuring Shaun Flores, a mental health advocate and consultant...

Navigating SEN Parenting: Tools for Thriving with Sharona Smith

09 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When a doctor or professional asks for details about when, why and where your child's meltdown occurred, unless you have the most incredible memory, i...

From Anxiety to Attendance: Rethinking SEMH Support with Helen Bray

02 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Attendance is a national priority, yet many interventions focus on behaviour management rather than addressing underlying SEMH needs. Helen Bray, the ...

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

25 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

As SEND registers continue to grow and expectations rise across the profession, many SENDCOs are leaving due to overwhelming workloads and lack of sup...

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

18 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

As the new Year 7 cohort settles into secondary school life and the Year 6 students prepare for their upcoming transition, I wanted to highlight this ...

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

11 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this week's podcast, Dr Sue Sheppard, an educational psychologist with over 30 years of experience in autism joins Dale. In this enlightening episo...

Supporting ND Learners in Secondary School Settings and Further Education with Susana Gonzalez

04 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, Dale is joined by Susana Gonzalez, the director and founder of ND Bright Brains, who brings over 20 years of experience in educati...

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

28 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The third in a four-part series on literacy success, Dr Sarah Moseley and Ginny Bootman join Dale to discuss 'Cracking the Code – Early Print Concep...

Where Safeguarding and SEND Meet with Sara Alston

21 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Neglect, abuse and exploitation are challenging subjects, however safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. When it comes to individuals with SEND, t...

Autism: The Quiet Ones with Joanna Grace

14 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We often think of the disruptive autistic child - the one whose behaviour draws attention and prompts others to suggest stricter discipline. This repr...

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

07 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I'm excited to share today's podcast, which holds a special place in my heart. Back in primary school, I had the incredible opportunity to ride and le...

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

31 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Oracy is increasingly taking centre stage in national discussions, and in today's episode, Dale is joined by Yin Collighan and Louise Emerson, both ex...

Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging with Dr Susie Nyman

24 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We are delighted to welcome back Dr Susie Nyman to the SENDcast following her recent visit to Buckingham Palace! In this episode, Susie joins Dale in ...

Parenting a Neurodivergent Child with Kate Steer

17 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Parenting is one of the most challenging yet rewarding journeys we can embark on. As a parent of a 10-year-old daughter and a 7-year-old son, I'm navi...

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

10 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The world outside of education is filled with technology, and if we shield children from it, we risk disadvantaging them when they transition into adu...

Sensory Circuits and Sensory Movement Breaks with Ali Neal

03 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Neurotypical pupils are usually able to meet their sensory needs during play time, however SEND pupils may face difficulties in motor or social skills...

Neurodiversity – Building Connections and Building Confidence with Marlon Huggins

26 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Gaming often gets a bad reputation, but it offers numerous benefits, especially for neurodivergent individuals. Many neurodiverse young people spend t...

How Can Schools Support Parents of SEN Children More Effectively with Sarah Billingham

19 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

SENCOs, school leaders & class teachers are currently spending large amounts of time supporting or responding to the concerns of parents of SEN childr...

The Stories We Tell About Autism with Joanna Grace

12 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I expect you've come across controversial headlines such as 'cause for autism discovered', which suggest that autism is a disease. You may have also h...

Bridging the Gap with Parent Carers with Rachel Wright

05 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I wanted to share our latest episode featuring Rachel Wright, founder of Born at the Right Time and a parent of neurodiverse children discussing 'Brid...

*Special Episode* nasen live 2025

03 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

nasen live 2025 preview We are delighted to welcome Michael Surr, Head of Education at nasen to the SENDcast.  We are excited to be exhibiting at nas...

Digital Dilemmas with Helen Bray

29 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

As children spend more time engaging with screens - whether through social media, gaming, or streaming - there are growing concerns about the impact o...

How Does Dyslexia Impact in the Classroom? with Jane Craig & Samantha Buttle

22 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In our fast-paced world, it's essential to rethink how we approach learning and education. Unfortunately, many dyslexic learners are being left behind...

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

15 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The second in a four-part series, Dr. Sarah Moseley and Ginny Bootman join Dale to discuss phonological awareness and its importance in literacy devel...

*Special Episode* The Autism & ADHD Shows 2025

14 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We are delighted to welcome Geoff and Nargis Soppet, Event Directors and Founders, on The SENDcast. Geoff and Nargis join Dale in the studio for this ...

Supporting Neurodiverse Students: Insights from Awesome Archie with Rebecca Clapcott

08 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Last month, Archie Clapcott joined Dale in the studio to share his transition from mainstream to special education. Today, his Mum, Rebecca Clapcott, ...

Why does the Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle matter? with Sara Alston

01 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Since the 2015 SEN Code of Practice SEN support has been based on a graduate response that includes an Assess, Plan, Do, Review (APDR) cycle. Unfortun...

Informal SEND Provision in Mainstream Primary: The Positives and The Pitfalls with Kate Browning

24 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the SENDcast, Dale discusses informal SEND provision in mainstream primary schools with Kate Browning, an experienced SEND consult...

Universal Approaches to Support in Education with Clare Ward & James Galpin

17 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I just finished listening to this thought-provoking podcast episode featuring Dr Jamie Galpin and Clare Ward! They join Dale to discuss 'Universal App...

How Dealing with Mental Images and 're-wiring' the Brain Can Create Breakthroughs for Dyslexia with Lou Barnes

10 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In our latest episode, we dive into the challenges faced by children struggling with reading and writing. It's crucial for us as educators to recognis...

nasen awards - Clare Brun Teacher of the Year

08 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this final special episode of our nasen award winner series, Clare Brun shares her experiences and insights as the Teacher of the Year, highlightin...

*Special Episode* Autism Europe International Congress 2025

07 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We are delighted to welcome the team behind Autism Congress on the SENDcast.  In this special episode of the SENDcast, Dale Pickles discusses the upc...

Awesome Archie's Journey from Mainstream to Specialist Education with Archie Clapcott

03 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I'm excited to share our latest podcast episode featuring our youngest guest, 16-year-old Archie Clapcott. Archie travelled to our studio to discuss h...

nasen awards - Jane Fearnley & Faye Ebbs, Alternative Provision of the Year

01 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Jane Fearnley and Faye Ebbs from the LEAF Centre, discuss their work and recent recognition as winners of the nasen Alternative Provision of the Year ...

Relationship Dynamics with Children with PDA with Beth Elkins & Ian Thorsteinsson

27 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I am delighted to share the latest episode of our podcast, where Beth Elkins and Ian Thorsteinsson from Gretton School join Dale to explore the relati...

nasen awards - St Andrews International School, International Provision of the Year

25 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this special episode, Catherine McCluskey, Paul Schofield, and Roo Stenning from St Andrews International School in Bangkok discuss their recogniti...

'Improve not Prove': Self-Evaluation for Continuous Improvement in Inclusion

20 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Inclusion continues to be a hot topic in education, and while schools have made tremendous strides in fostering inclusivity, several barriers remain, ...

nasen awards - Alison Eason, Changemaker of the Year

18 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Alison Eason discusses her recognition as the Changemaker of the Year at the nasen Awards for her innovative work in using technology to support stude...

Why We Need More Support For Neurodivergent Teachers with Catrina Lowri

13 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We typically discuss how to support neurodivergent children, but what about teachers? Today, Dale and Catrina Lowri, founder of Neuroteachers, discuss...

nasen awards - Michelle Madziak, Teacher of the Year

11 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this special episode, Michelle Madziak discusses her recognition as a joint winner of the Teacher of the Year award at the nasen Awards. She emphas...

The Importance of Literacy Education for ALL learners with Chantal Bryan & Sarah Giles

06 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, 'The Importance of Literacy Education for ALL Learners', Chantal Bryan and Sarah Giles from the charity Teach Us Too join Dale for...

nasen awards - Chapman Shum, Young Advocate of the Year

04 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The podcast features Chapman Shum, the nasen Young Advocate of the Year 2024 winner, discussing his journey as a visually impaired musician. Chapman, ...

Structured Teaching, Pre-empting Barriers and Developing Curriculum Pathways with Tanya Lefort

27 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

As the number of children with SEND in mainstream schools continues to rise, coupled with limited spaces in specialist settings, the demand for effect...

nasen awards - Dale Pickles, Resource for SEND

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this podcast episode, Dale Pickles takes a step back from hosting duties where his colleague Jon asks the questions. They discuss the success of th...

Foundations of Early Literacy – What Are the Building Blocks? with Dr Sarah Moseley & Ginny Bootman

20 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This week Dale is joined by Dr Sarah Moseley, Educational Consultant, and SENCO of four schools, Ginny Bootman to discuss 'Foundations of early litera...

nasen awards - Karen McGuigan, Highly commended Resource for SEND

18 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this special podcast episode, Karen McGuigan discusses her work with the 'Maths for Life' program, which was highly commended in the resource for S...

Supporting Colour Blindness with Marie Difolco

13 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Did you know that 300 million people worldwide live with colour blindness, including 3 million in the UK and around 450,000 of those are children? Unf...

nasen awards - Maxine O'Neill, Specialist provision of the year

11 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Maxine O'Neill discusses Hope School, which won the Specialist Provision of the Year award. She highlights the school's commitment to a trauma-informe...

Life's Ups and Downs of Having or Not Having a Special Needs Assessment with Dr Susie Nyman

06 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In recent years, we have seen increasing requests for diagnoses related to autism, dyslexia, and other neurodiverse conditions. Often parents may feel...

nasen awards - Eugene Dwaah, Highly commended changemaker of the year

04 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The podcast features Eugene Dwaah, who was highly commended for his work in the 'Change Maker of the Year' category. He discusses his innovative appro...

The Power of Language with our SEND Kids with Ali Fanshawe

30 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

"CALM DOWN!" "I've already asked you THREE times to put your shoes on!" "How dare you talk to me like that!" Do you ever find yourself standing at the...

nasen awards - Adam Millichip, Innovative Technology in the Field of Inclusion

28 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this podcast, Adam Millichip discusses Tettenhall Wood School's achievement of winning the Innovative Technology in the Field of Inclusion award. T...

Sleep Neurodiversity and Learning Disability with Dr Jill McGarry

23 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Getting to sleep can be challenging for some, often leading to hours spent trying to unwind before finally drifting off. Improving sleep is crucial –...

SENsible25 conference preview with Abigail Hawkins

22 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The SENsible SENCO, Abigail Hawkins joins Dale for a podcast special episode highlighting what's on at the SENsible25 SENCO conference on 14th Februar...

nasen awards - Paul Willis, Secondary Provision of the Year

21 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this special episode, Paul Willis discusses All Saints Catholic School in Essex, which recently won the Secondary Provision of the Year award at th...

Creating an SEMH Inclusive School with Clare Williams

16 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The social and emotional development, mental health, and wellbeing of children have become critical issues, with a crisis now widely recognised. NHS D...

nasen awards - Natalie Hay, Highly commended changemaker of the year

14 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this special episode, Natalie Hay discusses her recognition as a highly commended change maker for her advocacy in changing the UK government's fre...

Effectively Assessing Progress in the Classroom with Jordan

09 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Many schools face challenges in demonstrating progress for pupils with SEND, and I know assessment can often feel a bit mundane. However, it's a cruci...

Sensory Uncertainty with Clare Ward and Dr Jamie Galpin

02 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Happy New Year! As we prepare for a new term, I wanted to share the first episode of 2025 with you. In this episode 'Sensory Uncertainty', my guests C...

The Power of Relational Practice in an Autism Setting with Beth Elkins & Ian Thorsteinsson

19 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Before announcing the final episode of 2024, I just wanted to say a big heartfelt thank you to you, our wonderful listeners! It has been another remar...

Why Do So Many Professionals Believe They Are Right? with Tigger Pritchard

12 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tigger Pritchard, a neuroaffirming advocate, consultant, and trainer joins Dale in today's episode to discuss 'Why do so many professionals believe th...

Assumptions Around Physical Disabilities with Chloe Plummer

05 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Two days ago, we celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Dale recently had the pleasure of recording a podcast with Chloe Plumm...

Emotional Regulation Resources for SEND with Kerry Thalia

28 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The results of a recent study on the widely used Zones of Regulation have come as quite a shock to many in education. Despite its widespread use, the ...

Time Saving Tips for SENCOs with Ginny Bootman

21 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

SENCOs have a notoriously busy role spinning many plates. Ginny Bootman, a SENCO working across four schools, joins Dale in this episode 'Time saving ...

I'm Bipolar, But Don't Call Me Crazy with Catrina Lowri

14 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

**Please note this podcast covers sensitive topics, including suicide, and carries a trigger warning.** Psychosis, hallucinating, depression, mania…...

Reflections On How To Promote Positive Mental Health For SENCOs with Angela Scott

07 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The current Ofsted inspection frameworks acknowledge the vital responsibility educational leaders have for the wellbeing of their staff. However, anec...

It's Not The What It's The Why! with Alison Knowles

31 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Alison Knowles, Emotional Therapist, joins me today to discuss 'it's not the what, it's the why'. Alison tells us that assumptions often arise when we...

Alternative Provision with Veena Virahsammy

24 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Alternative Provision (AP) can often look 'fluffy' from the outside, leading to misconceptions about its true purpose. To clarify and raise awareness...

SEND Parent Partnerships with Danise B. Grant

17 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Parents of SEND children face numerous challenges, including feeling unheard, overwhelmed, and stressed when trying to get their child's needs met. Th...

Dyslexia Myth Busting with Louise Selby

10 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This Dyslexia Awareness Week (7-13 October), we are excited to share our latest podcast episode featuring dyslexia specialist Louise Selby! We tackle ...

Autism: My Personal Experiences and Advice for Professionals with Joe Fautley

03 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Why Movement Matters with Chloe Plummer

26 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Many of us take everyday tasks for granted, like standing up from a chair. However, for individuals with physical disabilities and complex needs, this...

Reconstructing the Students' Brain using The Person-Centred Approach to Learning with Dr Susie Nyman

19 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

All students benefit from personalised learning. By empowering them in a person-centred manner, they can engage openly with educators, making essentia...

Ask Don't Tell with Alison Knowles

12 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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...

SEND Briefing Preview: What will the new Government mean for SEND? with Jane Friswell

10 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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...