Regional SEND Leaders appointed across the country

Regional SEND Leaders have been appointed for every Regional School Commissioner area across the country and will help drive up standards in SEND expertise and practice.

As part of the DfE-funded SEND Schools Workforce contract, which is being delivered by the Whole School SEND Consortium, the new appointees are all based in schools and will bring a wealth of experience in special educational needs.  

The Regional Leaders will build networks of best SEND practice in their local areas and form links between mainstream and special schools to share knowledge and resources, as well as ensure that SEND provision is prioritised within school improvement plans.

Whole School SEND Regional Leaders will meet with headteacher networks, SENCo forums, teaching school alliances and other groups. The Regional SEND Leaders will highlight regional priorities for SEND provision improvement, share good practice, and signpost to SEND expertise, resource, training and research – so that every educational professional can increase the knowledge and confidence around SEND provision.

The Whole School SEND Consortium brings together schools, organisations and individuals who are committed to ensuring that every child and young person with SEND can achieve their potential at school.

Anne Heavey, National Director of Whole School SEND, said: “I am delighted that we have appointed such strong teams across England. Our Regional SEND Leaders will together drive best practice in their areas and are all well placed to make a difference for children with SEND.”