(blog)

The Mental Health of SENCOs: Addressing Challenges and Prioritising Wellbeing

Claire Walley
 — 
December 12, 2025

Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) play a crucial role in supporting students with diverse educational needs, working tirelessly to ensure that these children receive the appropriate resources and interventions. However, the mental health of SENCOs has become a pressing concern, as increasing workloads, emotional demands, and systemic challenges take a toll on their wellbeing.

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Debunking Common Myths in the Special Educational Needs System

Claire Walley
 — 
December 11, 2025

The landscape of Special Educational Needs (SEN) is often shrouded in misconceptions that can hinder understanding and support for individuals with diverse learning requirements. These myths can affect how parents, educators, and policymakers view and interact with the SEN system, ultimately impacting the lives of children and young people who need support. This blog aims to debunk some of the most prevalent myths in the SEN system, promoting better awareness and understanding among stakeholders.

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The Impact of Delays in the White Paper on Local Authorities’ Handling of EHCPs

Claire Walley
 — 
December 10, 2025

The delayed release of the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) review white paper has created significant challenges for local authorities in managing Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs). This situation has led to rising tensions and frustrations among parents, educators, and advocates, as local authorities grapple with unclear guidelines and increased pressure on resources.

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Navigating the Phase Transfer Process for Children with EHCPs

Claire Walley
 — 
September 24, 2025

Transitioning between phases of education can be an exciting yet daunting time for children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). As they move from primary to secondary school or from secondary to post-16 education, various changes can impact their emotional and academic journeys. Understanding the phase transfer process is crucial to ensuring these transitions are smooth and supportive.

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Solving the SEND Crisis: Why This Report Must Be a Turning Point

Claire Walley
 — 
September 18, 2025

On 18th September 2025, the Education Committee published its Solving the SEND Crisis report. At The SEN Expert, we were struck by both the honesty of this document and its urgency. It doesn’t shy away from the truth: the system is broken, families have lost trust, and professionals are working within structures that simply cannot cope. But it also sets out practical, long-term solutions. The question is—will government finally listen?

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Supporting School Attendance for Children with SEND

Anna Crowther Riley
 — 
April 8, 2025

School attendance is an important aspect of a child’s educational journey, but for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), maintaining regular attendance can present challenges. As a parent, understanding these challenges, knowing your child’s rights, and working collaboratively with schools can help create a positive and inclusive learning experience.

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Simple Strategies for Supporting SEND Children in a Mainstream School

Anna Crowther Riley
 — 
April 8, 2025

Mainstream schools are inclusive environments where children with a variety of needs can learn and thrive alongside their peers. However, it’s important to recognize that children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) may need additional support to help them succeed. The good news is that simple strategies can make a big difference in supporting SEND children in a mainstream setting. Whether you’re a parent or a teacher, there are easy ways to make learning more accessible and enjoyable for children with SEND.

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What is available to my child on SEN Support?

Anna Crowther Riley
 — 
April 6, 2025

 Is Your Child on the SEND Register but Doesn’t Have an EHCP? Here’s What You Should Expect

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What Makes a Great EHCP?

Anna Crowther Riley
 — 
April 6, 2025

If you're a parent of a child with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), you may be familiar with the Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP). While the process of getting one in place can seem like a lot of paperwork, meetings, and jargon, it’s one of the most important tools you have to ensure your child receives the right support at school, home, and in the wider community.

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Children's Wellbeing Bill

Anna Crowther Riley
 — 
April 6, 2025

If you’re a parent of a child with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), you might have heard about the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, introduced in December 2024. But what does it actually mean for you and your child? ‍

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The SEN Expert offers a range of services for young people, families and schools. We offer support for parents to help navigate the complex world of Special Educational Needs. We will work with you closely to ensure the best for your child.

The SEN Expert was set up by Claire in 2021 following a successful career spanning 12 years in school improvement, special educational needs, safeguarding and the arts.

Claire has worked as a Deputy Headteacher, Assistant Headteacher, Consultant and SENCO in both state and private schools in inner city London, the Southwest, the Midlands and the USA.

Throughout her career, Claire has ensured solid outcomes for the young people she has worked with. Be that a set of good exam grades, a placement in specialist setting or getting a part time job.

Claire is a working mother, and understands the challenges parents face trying to ensure their children are happy and successful. We aim to provide young people with a creative route to the personal and professional adult life they deserve.

Claire sits outside a café with a laptop

SEN consultancy
with a difference.

We offer support for families, children, and schools to navigate the complex world of SEN.

Check out our full list of services at our website www.thesenexpert.co.uk or follow us on Instagram @senexpert for daily advice on special educational needs.

The SEN Expert is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 13523478.