This podcast hosted by Georgina Durrant is all about teaching and supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). We aim to share the amazing things that our guests are doing to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEND). *This Podcast is proudly brought to you by the SEND team at Twinkl. Please bear in mind, the views and opinions expressed are those of individuals, and may not represent those of Twinkl.
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Join us as we discuss a diverse range of EYFS and KS1 best practice and provision, resourcing your Early Years environment and keep you up to date news and reviews from Ofsted & the DfE
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Welcome to 'Conversations with a SEND Mum' a podcast hosted by Nicole Bateman who is a SEND Mum herself and Co-Founder of The Super Sensory Squad. This podcast is dedicated to authentic conversations with SEND Parents—sharing the realities, challenges, and triumphs of raising children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Expect open, supportive chats that bring together the experiences and stories of parents navigating the unique world of SEND parenting. Alongside these chats, we ...
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SENDCOs and EHCPs- Georgina Durrant in Conversation with Lynn How
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33:06In 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…
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Introducing EExREC: Bridging Gaps in Reception Baseline Assessment
28:28
28:28
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28:28Andy Burt and Sarah Carey explore the challenges of assessment in early years education, highlighting the importance of child development and effective practices. Sarah introduces EExREC, a new tool designed to support educators and improve understanding of young children’s needs. Episode Links Explore the EExREC Baseline Assessment Tool…
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Helicopter Stories in Action with Trisha Lee
56:51
56:51
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56:51Re-release: Originally aired on 11 Nov 2022 In this episode, we talk to Trisha Lee all about the importance of nurturing and celebrating children’s storytelling. Trisha tells us all about her work in schools and also about her new book, The Growth of a Storyteller, which explores the practice of using helicopter stories to value, nurture and inspir…
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This week we chat with Rachel Stephenson and Sue Lonsdale from Holme Valley Primary School in Scunthorpe. We discuss their recent Ofsted inspection and the development of their inspirational learning environments. Episode Links Find out more about our Room Planning Service Shop our Complete Classroom Solutions…
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Education and Neurodiversity: Nicole Bateman chats with Charlotte Mountford
27:06
27:06
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27:06Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Check out our Season 3 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and on…
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Exploring Child-Centred Creative Practice with Gemma Shadid
53:36
53:36
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53:36Gemma Shadid joins us this week to explore the power of child-centred creative practice in the EYFS. We discuss the Reggio Emilia approach, the role of quality materials in art, and how sensory experiences and cultural diversity shape children’s learning and identity. Episode Links Transform your Learning Environment with our Room Planning Service.…
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A Guide to SEND in the Early Years with Kerry Murphy
42:48
42:48
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42:48Re-release: Originally aired on 6 May 2022. This week, Andy interviews Kerry Murphy, Early Years Lecturer and Consultant, about her new book A Guide to SEND in the Early Years. Andy and Kerry discuss and reflect on EYFS practice, how best to support children with SEND and also challenge some common misconceptions. Episode Links Order Kerry’s book: …
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Navigating Speech and Language Challenges with Georgina Durrant
40:58
40:58
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40:58Georgina Durrant shares her journey from teacher to SEN advocate, stressing the need for better training, play in learning, and strong parent-teacher collaboration. She discusses supporting speech and language needs, highlighting communication, sensory experiences, and understanding behaviour as communication. Episode Links Explore our dedicated SE…
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Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child with Alison Clark
45:01
45:01
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45:01Re-release: Originally aired on 5 May 2023. We talk to Alison Clark about her recent book Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child. As part of the conversation, Alison discusses the pressures within Early Childhood Education and makes the case for slow pedagogies when working with young children. Episode Links Watch the low Pedagogy-Making Time for C…
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Autism, sensory processing differences and anxiety - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Joe Fautley
25:35
25:35
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25:35This 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 ac…
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How the National Gallery Inspires Young Minds with Alison Wain
27:24
27:24
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27:24Alison Wain from the National Gallery explores the role of creativity in children’s learning, how young learner engage with art differently than adults, and the gallery’s efforts to make art education accessible. She also shares details about the new family learning centre and the gallery’s 200th anniversary celebrations, including free programs fo…
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Autism Acceptance: Nicole Bateman chats with Tynisha from Visible Autism
36:12
36:12
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36:12Autism Acceptance Day: Masking, Diagnosis and Visibility with Tynisha from Visible Autism in this Autism Acceptance Day special, Nicole Bateman speaks with Tynisha from Visible Autism about her lived experience as an autistic woman and her journey to self-understanding and advocacy. In This Episode: Masking and Late Diagnosis – Tynisha shares how s…
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Exploring Early Literacy and Phonics Skills with Nicky Turner
1:11:09
1:11:09
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1:11:09Re-release: Originally aired on 3 Nov 2023. Nikki Turner, from the Astrea Multi-Academy Trust, joins us to discuss early literacy, emphasizing storytelling, music, and physical development as key to learning. The discussion highlights the importance of rich language exposure and a holistic teaching approach. Episode Links Book your Place on Early E…
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Purple Day 2025 Episode 2/2: Nicole Bateman chats with Kelly Norford
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31:17
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31:17Purple Day Special – Parenting Kids with Epilepsy with Kelly Norford In this Purple Day special episode of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman chats with Kelly Norford, a mum of three children with epilepsy. They discuss the unique and evolving challenges of epilepsy: from managing different seizure types to navigating the impact on menta…
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Purple Day Special 2025 1/2: Nicole Bateman chats with Hattie Brant
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20:54Epilepsy Awareness with Hattie Brant from Purple Dayss In this special episode of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman is joined by Hattie Brant, founder of Purple Dayss, to raise awareness for Purple Day (March 26th)—a global movement dedicated to increasing understanding and reducing stigma around epilepsy. Hattie shares her personal jou…
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Story Steps: The Power of Storytelling with Trisha Lee
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49:12Trisha Lee joins us to explore the power of storytelling and poetry in early childhood education, the role of improvisation, and the importance of a rich story diet. Plus, she shares exciting news about her new program, Story Steps! Episode Links Discover Trisha Lee's Story Steps Programme Support Reading and Storytelling Skills at Home with the NE…
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Celebrating Outdoor Learning with Sarah Watkins
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52:57
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52:57Re-release: Originally aired on 8 Dec 2023. This episode explores the benefits of outdoor learning in early childhood education, from mental health and development to fostering independence and community. Sarah Watkins discusses the challenges of reclaiming outdoor spaces, balancing risk, and ensuring older students don’t miss out on these vital ex…
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ADHD - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Colin Foley
46:03
46:03
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46:03In 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 …
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Understanding the Impact of Premature Birth with Caroline Woodman
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44:14Caroline Woodman joins us this week as we explore the impact of premature birth on children’s development. Caroline shares her own story and that of her son, Reuben, who was born prematurely. She emphasizes the importance of early intervention, understanding developmental challenges, and the need for educational professionals to be aware of the uni…
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Dr Simone Tomaz joins us this week as we explore the importance of physical opportunities for young children and how these experiences support other areas of development. The discussion also covers the balance between sleep, screen time and physical engagement in young children. Episode Links Find Out About the Work of Dr Simone Tomaz Explore How t…
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Exploring Early Literacy with Karen Boardman
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40:34We welcome Dr Karen Boardman from Edge Hill University to the podcast this week as we discuss all things early literacy. Episode Links Explore Early Excellence Training on Strengthening Early Literacy in the EYFS Find Out More on the Work of Dr Karen Boardman Discover our Range of Literacy ResourcesBy Early Excellence
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This week, we’re joined by Rhianne Stephens from Ely and Caerau Integrated Children’s Centre in Cardiff. We discuss the setting’s regular visits to the beach throughout the year and the fantastic impact of connecting with nature. Episode Links Join our Upcoming Inspiring Leaders Conference Discover our Range of Outdoor Resources…
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Education System not a SEND System - Georgina Durrant is joined by Annamarie Hassal CEO of nasen
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40:05
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40:05In 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 t…
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This week we’re joined by Jayne Hosmer from the charity Pets as Therapy as we explore the impact of pets on our youngest children. Episode Links Find out more about the work of Pets as TherapyBy Early Excellence
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Professional Love in the EYFS with Dr Jools Page
1:01:25
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1:01:25This week we’re joined by Dr. Jools Page as we explore her highly important research on professional love within EYFS settings. Episode Links Watch the Video "Professional Love: The Dance of Reciprocity." Read the Blog "What is Professional Love?" Explore EYFS CPD TrainingBy Early Excellence
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Reflections of an Early Career Teacher: An Update with Sara Adams
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37:57
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37:57This week, Sara Adams returns to give us an update on her time as an Early Career Teacher working in Nursery. As part of the episode, we discuss the diverse needs of the children, reflective practice and the wonder of mathematics in the EYFS. Episode Links Join our Free ECT Webinar Listen to Sara's first ECT Episode New to the EYFS? Join This Key O…
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Why Children Need Joy with Ben Kingston-Hughes
58:54
58:54
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58:54The brilliant Ben Kingston-Hughes joins us this week as we explore the power of joy when working with young children. Episode Links Order Your Copy of Ben’s Book "Why Children Need Joy" Join us for our Inspiring Leaders ConferenceBy Early Excellence
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Inspiring EYFS Practice: A Senior Leader's Perspective with Anna Wells
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43:55
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43:55Anna Wells joins us this week as we explore inspirational practice from a senior leader's perspective. We discuss observation and monitoring and the key markers in terms of effective EYFS practice. Episode Links Book your place on the Inspiring Leaders Conference Explore Training for Senior LeadersBy Early Excellence
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Educational Psychologists - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Dr Gavin Morgan from the BPS
28:29
28:29
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28:29In 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) …
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SEND Focus: Developing Learning Environments in Specialist Provision
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46:59
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46:59In this week's episode, we're joined by Rhyannan Porter and Evie Askew from Mayfield School in Cumbria. We discuss how well-planned continuous provision has been developed to help meet the diverse range of children's needs at the school. Episode Links Find out more about Early Excellence support with SEND Book your place on Early Excellence CPD Tra…
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RSE for Pupils with SEND - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Johanna Aiyathurai
40:14
40:14
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40:14In 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 p…
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Getting Started with Drama in the EYFS with Sam Marsden
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39:06
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39:06We're joined by drama specialist and author, Sam Marsden, this week as we explore the wonderful possibilities of drama for early years children. We discuss the holistic nature of drama and the great links to communication and language, problem solving and creativity. Sam also shares simple ideas to help you get started with drama in the EYFS. Episo…
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The Journey into SEND Fatherhood: Nicole Bateman chats with Mark Allen and Callum Galbraith
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19:20
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19:20In episode 9 of Season 3 of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman welcomes Mark Allen and Callum Galbraith, two of the 14 fathers featured in The Journey into SEND Fatherhood, a powerful new book by SEND Reform England. Together, they dive into the unique experiences of being SEND Dads, sharing the challenges, triumphs, and personal growth …
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Living with ARFID: Nicole Bateman chats with Michelle Jacques
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26:07
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26:07In Season 3 episode 8 of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman dives into the complex world of restricted eating and ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) with expert Michelle Jacques. Together, they discuss: What is ARFID? Michelle explains the everyday realities of ARFID, a sensory-based eating disorder. They explore how ARFID…
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Exploring Floorbooks and Displays with Llewella Ivins
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32:30We're joined by Llewella Ivins this week as we explore how to use floorbooks and displays effectively to capture and celebrate learning. Episode Links Discover our EYFS Training Programme Join us at one of our Touring EYFS Roadshow Events Near YouBy Early Excellence
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ADHD, Autism and Masking in the Workplace: Nicole Bateman chats with Tania Gerard
22:41
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22:41In Season 3 episode 7 of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman is joined by Tania Gerard, an autistic and ADHD advocate, trainer, and speaker. Together, they explore the challenges of being neurodivergent in the workplace and the crucial need for understanding and inclusion in professional settings. Key Highlights: Neurodiversity and Maskin…
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The Great Outdoors! Exploring Effective Outdoor Learning with Evan McCormick
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47:08
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47:08Evan McCormick joins us this week as we explore the key principles of effective practice outdoors. As part of the episode, we discuss the high level of organisation needed outdoors as well as resourcing, planning and the role of the adult. Episode Links Is Outdoor Learning a key area for development at your school or setting? Find Out About our Tra…
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Autism and AAC: Nicole Bateman chats with Laura Brown
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24:15In this episode of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman sits down with Laura Brown, the voice behind Spinning World of Autism. Laura shares her family’s journey with her autistic son, Ethan, and their experiences navigating the world of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) to support his communication needs. Key Highlights: Emb…
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Leading SEND Provision - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Natalie Packer
51:50
51:50
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51:50In 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 review…
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Curriculum Development in the EYFS with Charlotte Kelly from Oldfield Brow Primary School
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42:10Charlotte Kelly joins us for this week's podcast episode as we reflect on a period of curriculum development at the school. As part of our chat, we explore the changes to the learning environment , well-planned resourcing and a focus on progression in the EYFS. We're proud to say that Oldfield Brow are now one of our Early Excellence Partner School…
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Simple Self Care For Parent Carers: Nicole Bateman chats with Rachel Slyfield
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19:29
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19:29In Episode 5 of Season 3 of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman sits down with Rachel Slyfield, founder of Rachel’s 3 R’s Subscription Box, who shares her journey as a SEND mum and her passion for self-care. Rachel opens up about her experience navigating the diagnosis process with her son, Teddy, and the ways she’s learned to balance par…
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SEND - Key Questions Answered with Louise Herbert and Gareth Shaw
1:02:19
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1:02:19Louise Herbert and Gareth Shaw join us this week as we offer valuable SEND advice and answer key questions to support practice. Episode Links Access our Free SEND Framework Materials Join us for our New Course on Strengthening SEND PracticeBy Early Excellence
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This week we're joined by Nova Robinson as we explore what we mean by effective enhancements and reflect on how we make this work within a key stage one context. Episode Links Listen to our Podcast Episode - Getting Started with Continuous Provision in Key Stage 1 Access Early Excellence Key Stage 1 training Download our Free Key Stage 1 Audits and…
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Ready Eddie Go: Nicole Bateman chats with Nikki Saunders
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19:26
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19:26In episode 4 of Conversations with a SEND Mum Season 3, host Nicole Bateman chats with Nikki Saunders, an incredible mum of two autistic boys and the brilliant mind behind the TV series Ready Eddie Go on Sky Kids. Nikki shares her journey of becoming an author, driven by her desire to support her own children in understanding their autism diagnosis…
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Author and illustrator Pippa Pixley joins us for this week’s episode as we discuss the importance of creative experiences, interactive storytelling and nurturing a love of nature. Episode Links Find Out More about Pippa’s Work Book Your Place on one of our Early Excellence Roadshow EventsBy Early Excellence
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DLD Awareness Day: Nicole Bateman chats with Tamara Holland
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28:55In this episode of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman is joined by Tamara Holland from Dot and Stripe Marketing to raise awareness for Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) on DLD Awareness Day. Tamara, a passionate advocate and parent of a child with DLD, shares her personal journey and the challenges of navigating life with a diagnosis…
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Empowering Young Learners with Dr Natalie Canning
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52:58Dr Natalie Canning joins us for this week’s episode of the podcast as we discuss her key research on empowering young learners in the EYFS. Episode Links Find out More on Dr Natalie Canning’s Research on Empowering Young Learners Read our Blog on Nurturing Children’s Self-Confidence and Security in the EYFS Book your Place on an Early Excellence Ro…
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Raising the SEN-Betweeners: Nicole Bateman chats with Lisa Lloyd
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21:01In this episode of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman is joined by Lisa Lloyd, author of Raising the Sen-Betweeners. Lisa shares her personal journey of raising two very different autistic children and the unique challenges they face navigating mainstream school settings when their needs don't quite fit the criteria for specialist educat…
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Getting your class to behave - Georgina Durrant in conversation with Sue Cowley
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47:32*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 h…
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We’re joined by Nova Robinson this week as we discuss the challenges but also the benefits of age classes. We explore the importance of a clear understanding of child development and offer key advice for meeting the needs of all of the children. Episode Links Book your place on our Support for Teachers with Mixed Age Classes Webinar Series…
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