A new, flexible degree is perfect for people interested in or currently working with children as a teaching assistant, special needs assistant, cover supervisor, Higher Level Teaching Assistant or outdoor learning practitioner. Closing date 12 August. Looking for a career…

A young carer is an individual under the age of 18 who provides care for a family member, relative, or friend. These young carers often assist someone with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or drug and alcohol problems. Their…

In previous years we’ve undertaken a revised approach to consulting with settings over the summer break with consultations only being sent on a Monday, to support SENCOs and Headteachers with responding to consultations in a more coordinated way. This approach…

This is an opportunity to network with other SENCOs and receive CPD and vital updates regarding SEND. The SEND Networks are for SENCOs in all settings. They are face-to-face meetings held three times a year. The Networks are conducted in…

The Somerset Suicide Prevention Partnership has developed a new draft Suicide Prevention Strategy for Somerset. The suicide prevention partnership is a multi-agency forum with representation from the local Integrated Care Board (NHS Somerset), Somerset Foundation Trust, Public Health and voluntary…

As Summer approaches, we look forward to travelling, taking holidays, attending events and enjoying more time outdoors. There are some simple things we can all do to stay safe throughout summer and to keep illness at bay as we enjoy…

Welcome to the June issue of SEND News. My name is Julia Ridge and I have been Head of Vulnerable Learners since January 2023. ‘Vulnerable children/learners’ is a term that you may hear often in any education setting. The No…

Ellise, a young lady from Somerset, has emerged as an inspiring figure. She has physical impairment and augmentative and alternative communication needs and has gone on to being a motivational speaker! Her journey began with the use of an augmentative…

In early June, Somerset Council held the first of three Let’s Talk SEND & Inclusion events for this year, hosted by Somerset Parent Carer Forum. We are excited to share a recap of the session with you, to give you…

We are really pleased to launch the updated guidance and information for families and educational setting focusing on how to support children and young people with sensory processing differences. The updated materials have been produced in partnership between education settings,…

The Community Inclusion and Activity Team (CIA Team) in Somerset is dedicated to providing inclusive activities for children with disabilities or additional needs. Whether it’s monthly family clubs, teen clubs, or fun days out during school holidays, the CIA Team ensures that…

Seven education settings have been involved in the Autism in Schools project over the last 6 months. These settings have collected feedback from families about their experiences and used to this make changes to their offers. All staff in the…

WISE up Workshops The Somerset Parent Carer Forum have created a range of fantastic workshops based on topics parents have expressed would be helpful – Workshops for Information, Support and Education (WISE). All the workshops are delivered or co-delivered by someone with lived…

Somerset’s Local Offer pages are a hub of information on supporting children and young people aged 0-25 years old with additional needs in Somerset, and their families. Our Events page is always growing! Keep up to date with SEND events…

Connect Somerset is about all professionals and community groups working together to help families and residents to improve their lives. It is a partnership between Somerset Council, Somerset NHS, Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprises, and Schools, Colleges, and Early…

Somerset Youth Forum is inviting all young people in Somerset aged 10-18 years (or up to 25 years with SEND) to a special session to discuss the final stages of the new Children and Young People’s Plan and its launch.…

In preparation for the upcoming general election, Dame Rachel de Souza, the Children’s Commissioner for England, has developed a resource specifically designed for children and young people: What is a General Election? Resource for children and young people This resource…

The Fit for Work Program aims to help adults with disabilities get ready for employment. It offers a 10-week program, with sessions lasting 2 hours each week. Coaches will focus on various sports and strength and conditioning training to prepare…

A project to support young people’s wellbeing by discovering what makes them happy has resulted in a new e-zine. 30 organisations and 620 young people in Somerset have taken part in the “What Makes You Happy?” community project. The year-long…

Charting the achievements from April 2023 to March 2024, the new SENDIAS Annual Report looks at the operational functions, support, development, and the difference the team has made. The SENDIAS Team provides free impartial, confidential advice and support about education,…