SEN and Sensibility

In this episode of SEN & Sensibility , the panelexplores the relationship between speech, language and communication needs and literacy difficulties, highlighting how developmental language disorder and dyslexia can overlap and how language needs may be missed in the classroom. The discussion emphasises the importance of early identification, joined-up support and collaboration between teacher...

This episode explores reading development anddifficulties , focusing on how understanding the reading process can shapemore effective and motivating support for learners. Key points include: The discussion offers practical insight andreassurance for practitioners and parents alike, highlighting how motivatingenvironments, accessible resources, and informed strategies can help learnersengage more c...

In this thought‑provoking conversation, Liz Horobin and Sarah Reay are joined by Dr Tim Mills (National Curriculum& Writing Framework advisor) and Dr Francesca Bonafede (National Literacy Trust) to explore the state of writing in UK schools and what really shapes young people’s motivation to write. Fran shares new insights from a major study of 14,700pupils aged 8–18 , revealing sharp declines...

Join Liz Horobin and Sarah Reay as they talk with Professor Joel Talcott about The Universal Classroom —an innovative, neuroscience informed approach designed to help teachers better understand and support children’s learning needs in Year One. Joel explains how the Universal Classroom shifts the focus from traditional outcome-based assessments to the underlying cognitive skills that shape learnin...

What does true inclusion look like in the workplace—and whyis it critical for success? In this episode, Liz Horobin and Sarah Reay arejoined by Laura Cook, Helen Curran, and Chris Collier to explore: ✅ How inclusion impacts employeewellbeing and business performance ✅Practical steps for inclusive recruitment and onboarding ✅Why psychological safety and belonging matter more than policies ✅The...

Redefining inclusion: bringing about attitudinal change in schools In this episode of SEN and Sensibility , Liz Horobin and Sarah Reay are joined by Helen Benstead and Dom Griffiths to discuss one of the most pressing issues in education today: inclusion. Together, they explore what good inclusive practice really means, why attitudes and relationships matter as much as policy, and how Universal De...

In this episode, Sarah and Liz are joined by three leading experts in the area of dyscalculia, maths difficulties, and maths anxiety.   Dr Kinga Morsanyi is Reader in Mathematical Cognition and Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the School of Science at Loughborough University.   Rob Jennings is co-founder of the Dyscalculia Network, a not-for-profit organization that sets out to suppo...

In this powerful first episode, we dive into the world of SEND and neurodiversity with two inspiring guests: Jo Tolley and Penny Hannant.  Dr Penny Hannant , a developmental psychologist and lecturer at the University of Birmingham, shares insights from her research into early years development. She introduces a developmental profiling tool that could revolutionise how we identify and support chil...