A journey to a journey – transformation of Home to School Travel
A journey to a journey – transformation of Home to School
Widening the lens through which our clients begin to tackle the challenge.
We recently hosted a virtual shared learning event for 10 Directors of Children’s Services and Education, to take stock of the challenges and opportunities in the SEND system, reflect on policy direction and, most importantly, share what is working on the ground.
We were joined by Dame Christine Lenehan, Director of the Council for Disabled Children who spoke about the national context of High Needs and the SEND and Care Reviews. And by Directors of Children’s Services from Lincolnshire, Stockton and Norfolk who shared their strategic perspectives and plans, which was followed by roundtable discussion.
Heather Sandy described how Lincolnshire County Council are responding to need differently at each stage of the continuum, starting with the SEND Advice Line for Lincolnshire, Ask SALL. Martin Gray (Stockton Borough Council) highlighted the importance of setting the right outcomes framework, and Sara Tough shared Norfolk County Council’s early intervention approaches.
Though there are differences in local contexts and nuances, we all agreed that Heather summed up the shared strategic attitude: progress not perfection.
Undoubtedly the High Needs and SEND system is complex. There are numerous agencies and people involved, and outcomes (and spend) are ultimately determined by the thousands of conversations that take place daily. The key – the group agreed – is not becoming paralysed by this or striving for perfection but rather getting on with it, trying new approaches and learning as we go.
In practice, this means putting in hard miles to influence the system and understand what is working. The group agreed on three key themes:
Whatever the thrust of the SEND Review, the onus will always be on local systems to improve outcomes for children and young people. The funding challenge will not go away any time soon but, with the right approach and techniques, we absolutely can make a difference and work towards a fairer system. So, let’s not wait for the review or get lost in the complexity – instead, let’s strive for progress.