Together for SEND 2026 - Plan your day
Please note: For education staff only there is an early breakfast and networking session, along with a talk starting at 8:15 am.
Exhibitors will be open from 9:30 am, and families are welcome to arrive from 9:30 am, with the first family talk beginning at 10:00 am. Session 1 details: 10:00–10:55amPick one talk • tap a tile to read more
Selected talk: Parent carer wellbeing - a Murmuration taster session
Expect a warm and welcoming circle of parent carers, facilitated with deep care by Murmuration's Poppy and Naomi.
This is an opportunity to connect with yourself, that original you that may well be at the back of the queue most of the time due to the many demands of SEND parenting.
Learning to acknowledge and express the emotions we hold not only leads to better mental resilience it also enables us to draw out wisdom and growth from the struggles we face.
Participants will have the opportunity to try several wellbeing tools, including journaling, sharing, exercises for nervous system regulation and guided relaxation, all supporting deep connection to ourselves and others.
Selected talk: EHCP Appeals: what every parent needs to know
An opportunity for parents/carers considering an appeal to the SEND Tribunal or already in one to get answers to the questions you didn't know you needed to ask.
From understanding deadlines and filling in forms to obtaining witness statements and expert evidence. Even what to call the Judge (spoiler: it's Judge).
Selected talk: New to SEND - a session delivered in Somali
Fahamka Taageerada Baahiyaha Ilmahaaga
Ma bilaabaysaa raadinta taageero ku saabsan koritaanka, dabeecadda, waxbarashada ama fayo-qabka ilmahaaga?
Ma dareemaysaa jahawareer oo aadan hubin halka aad ka bilaabi lahayd ama cidda aad la xiriiri lahayd?
Kaligaa ma tihid. Kulankaan waxaa loogu talagalay in uu ku siiyo taageero, macluumaad cad, iyo hagitaan wax ku ool ah, jawi degan oo saaxiibtinimo leh.
Waxyaabaha Aan Ka Hadli Doonno:
- Waxbarashada (Education)
Sida dugsiyadu u bixin karaan taageero marka ilmaha uu la kulmayo caqabada waxbarashdada ama dabeecadeed. - Caafimaadka (Health)
Dulmar ku saabsan taageerada caafimaadka sida dhakhaatiirta, daaweeyayaasha (therapists), ama kooxaha caafimaadka bulshada, iyo sida loo heli karo adeegyadaas. - Daryeelka Bulshada (Social Care)
Taageerada laga heli karo golaha deegaanka (local council), cidda u qalmi karta, iyo sida loo codsado caawimo daryeelka ilmaha. - Wada Shaqaynta (Working Together)
Siyaabo fudud oo macluumaadka iskugu xira guriga, dugsiga iyo adeegyada caafimaadka. - Su’aalo iyo Jawaabo (Q&A)
Weydii su’aalahaaga! Waxaad weydiin kartaa wax kasta oo adiga kuu muhiim ah.
Selected talk: Parent carer wellbeing - a Murmuration taster session
Expect a warm and welcoming circle of parent carers, facilitated with deep care by Murmuration's Poppy and Naomi.
This is an opportunity to connect with yourself, that original you that may well be at the back of the queue most of the time due to the many demands of SEND parenting.
Learning to acknowledge and express the emotions we hold not only leads to better mental resilience it also enables us to draw out wisdom and growth from the struggles we face.
Participants will have the opportunity to try several wellbeing tools, including journaling, sharing, exercises for nervous system regulation and guided relaxation, all supporting deep connection to ourselves and others.
Selected talk: EHCP Appeals: what every parent needs to know
An opportunity for parents/carers considering an appeal to the SEND Tribunal or already in one to get answers to the questions you didn't know you needed to ask.
From understanding deadlines and filling in forms to obtaining witness statements and expert evidence. Even what to call the Judge (spoiler: it's Judge).
Selected talk: New to SEND - a session delivered in Somali
Fahamka Taageerada Baahiyaha Ilmahaaga
Ma bilaabaysaa raadinta taageero ku saabsan koritaanka, dabeecadda, waxbarashada ama fayo-qabka ilmahaaga?
Ma dareemaysaa jahawareer oo aadan hubin halka aad ka bilaabi lahayd ama cidda aad la xiriiri lahayd?
Kaligaa ma tihid. Kulankaan waxaa loogu talagalay in uu ku siiyo taageero, macluumaad cad, iyo hagitaan wax ku ool ah, jawi degan oo saaxiibtinimo leh.
Waxyaabaha Aan Ka Hadli Doonno:
- Waxbarashada (Education)
Sida dugsiyadu u bixin karaan taageero marka ilmaha uu la kulmayo caqabada waxbarashdada ama dabeecadeed. - Caafimaadka (Health)
Dulmar ku saabsan taageerada caafimaadka sida dhakhaatiirta, daaweeyayaasha (therapists), ama kooxaha caafimaadka bulshada, iyo sida loo heli karo adeegyadaas. - Daryeelka Bulshada (Social Care)
Taageerada laga heli karo golaha deegaanka (local council), cidda u qalmi karta, iyo sida loo codsado caawimo daryeelka ilmaha. - Wada Shaqaynta (Working Together)
Siyaabo fudud oo macluumaadka iskugu xira guriga, dugsiga iyo adeegyada caafimaadka. - Su’aalo iyo Jawaabo (Q&A)
Weydii su’aalahaaga! Waxaad weydiin kartaa wax kasta oo adiga kuu muhiim ah.
Selected talk: SEND & Inclusion Strategy: reflections and next steps
As we embark on the second year of the SEND and Inclusion Strategy 2024-2028, Vik Verma, Director of Education and Skills, and Helen Cox, Head of Inclusion, will share their reflections on the progress achieved so far.
They will also provide insights into the ongoing initiatives and outline forthcoming plans for year two of the SEND and Inclusion Strategy.
In addition, Vik and Helen will discuss the latest developments in national SEND reforms and explore what these changes could mean for Bristol’s community.
Selected talk: Sirona - what makes a good referral to local health services
Unsure what health services are looking for in a referral?
This session supports education staff to understand what makes a good-quality referral to Sirona Care & Health, including how to describe need clearly, share relevant context, and strengthen referrals so children get the right support at the right time.
Selected talk: Introduction to autism and eating difficulties
Food and eating can be a huge concern for autistic people, where sensory issues and anxiety can lead to a person having a very restricted diet. In this session, we'll learn all about autism and food sensitivities and explore ways to meet autistic needs around food and eating.
Covering:
- Physical health and eating
- Sensory sensitivities and their role in eating
- Anxiety's role in eating
- Pica, Anorexia and ARFID
- Strategies that work to help autistic children and adults
Selected talk: SEND & Inclusion Strategy: reflections and next steps
As we embark on the second year of the SEND and Inclusion Strategy 2024-2028, Vik Verma, Director of Education and Skills, and Helen Cox, Head of Inclusion, will share their reflections on the progress achieved so far.
They will also provide insights into the ongoing initiatives and outline forthcoming plans for year two of the SEND and Inclusion Strategy.
In addition, Vik and Helen will discuss the latest developments in national SEND reforms and explore what these changes could mean for Bristol’s community.
Selected talk: Sirona - what makes a good referral
Unsure what health services are looking for in a referral?
This session supports school staff to understand what makes a good-quality referral to Sirona Care & Health, including how to describe need clearly, share relevant context, and strengthen referrals so children get the right support at the right time.
Selected talk: Introduction to autism and eating difficulties
Food and eating can be a huge concern for autistic people, where sensory issues and anxiety can lead to a person having a very restricted diet. In this session, we'll learn all about autism and food sensitivities and explore ways to meet autistic needs around food and eating.
Covering:
- Physical health and eating
- Sensory sensitivities and their role in eating
- Anxiety's role in eating
- Pica, Anorexia and ARFID
- Strategies that work to help autistic children and adults
Session 2 Details: 11:15–12:30pm
Pick one option • tap a tile to read more • Tip: the exhibitor hall is quieter during sessions
Selected option: New to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
If you are feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or don't know where to start - this session is for you.
Delivered by Bristol Parent Carers, we will help you make sense of the SEND system, explain what support exists, and where to go for help.
You don't need a diagnosis. If your child is struggling, behaving differently, or things just don't feel straightforward - come along and find your bearings.
Selected option: Caring for a child with complex disabilities - the grief, the grit, the staying sane
This option is limited to 15 places to book in advance. If all places are filled, we’ll contact you to offer an alternative or add you to a waiting list.
Parents of children with complex disabilities face a particularly challenging parenting path - our children may have learning disabilities, multiple medical conditions, visible differences, they may be non-verbal, use a wheelchair, have sensory impairments, or be tube-fed.
Join Poppy and Jemima, who run Navigation and Nurture, a service for parents of children with complex disabilities. In this workshop, they will share aspects of their personal experiences as medical "mums" and explore ways towards wellbeing and connection.
This is a session for parents only.
Selected option: Peer Support
Go with a question and get an answer today. You will also have time to look at exhibitors.
Selected option: New to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
If you are feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or don't know where to start - this session is for you.
Delivered by Bristol Parent Carers, we will help you make sense of the SEND system, explain what support exists, and where to go for help.
You don't need a diagnosis. If your child is struggling, behaving differently, or things just don't feel straightforward - come along and find your bearings.
Selected option: Caring for a child with complex disabilities - the grief, the grit, the staying sane
This option is limited to 15 places to book in advance. If all places are filled, we’ll contact you to offer an alternative or add you to a waiting list.
Parents of children with complex disabilities face a particularly challenging parenting path - our children may have learning disabilities, multiple medical conditions, visible differences, they may be non-verbal, use a wheelchair, have sensory impairments, or be tube-fed.
Join Poppy and Jemima, who run Navigation and Nurture, a service for parents of children with complex disabilities. In this workshop, they will share aspects of their personal experiences as medical "mums" and explore ways towards wellbeing and connection.
This is a session for parents only.
Selected option: Peer Support
Peer support means talking to other parent carers who have lived experience of navigating the system.
You can come with a specific question, a current worry, or something you’re trying to figure out - and get practical insight the same day.Peer support isn’t legal advice or a replacement for professional services - but it is a safe, informed space to share experiences, sense-check decisions, and feel less alone while dealing with complex systems.
Selected option: Beyond exclusion
This session explores how relational and trauma-informed practice underpins everything we do at Learning Partnership West (LPW) and how, through this approach, we operate a zero-exclusion school which was rated outstanding by OFSTED.
It focuses on the importance of emotionally available adults, co-regulation, and the creation of a triangle of trust so every young person feels safe, understood, and connected.
The presentation highlights how LPWs' zero-exclusion approach nurtures students through empathy, consistency, and repair - showing that behaviour is communication, not defiance.
The session shares the model of inclusion and how we operate on a day to day basis to make our school work!
Selected option: Adaptive Teaching
Join Alison Hendy, Service Manager for Inclusive Learning, who is well known to many working across Bristol's education landscape, for a practical session exploring what adaptive teaching looks like in real settings.
Alison will support education staff to reflect on how adaptive teaching is currently embedded within their own settings, and how it can be strengthened over time.
The session will explore a range of resources and approaches that can support SENCOs to establish, develop, and monitor the impact of adaptive teaching, with a focus on what works in practice and how this aligns with inclusive whole-school approaches.
Selected option: Starting School
Delivered by Bristol Early Years and Portage.
This session will share key processes and information for reception starters to help families and professionals understand what to expect as a child starts school, and where to get support.
Selected option: Beyond exclusion
This session explores how relational and trauma-informed practice underpins everything we do at Learning Partnership West (LPW) and how, through this approach, we operate a zero-exclusion school which was rated outstanding by OFSTED.
It focuses on the importance of emotionally available adults, co-regulation, and the creation of a triangle of trust so every young person feels safe, understood, and connected.
The presentation highlights how LPWs' zero-exclusion approach nurtures students through empathy, consistency, and repair - showing that behaviour is communication, not defiance.
The session shares the model of inclusion and how we operate on a day to day basis to make our school work!
Selected option: Adaptive Teaching
Join Alison Hendy, Service Manager for Inclusive Learning, who is well known to many working across Bristol's education landscape, for a practical session exploring what adaptive teaching looks like in real settings.
Alison will support education staff to reflect on how adaptive teaching is currently embedded within their own settings, and how it can be strengthened over time.
The session will explore a range of resources and approaches that can support SENCOs to establish, develop, and monitor the impact of adaptive teaching, with a focus on what works in practice and how this aligns with inclusive whole-school approaches.
Selected option: Starting School
Delivered by Bristol Early Years and Portage.
This session will share key processes and information for reception starters to help families and professionals understand what to expect as a child starts school, and where to get support.
Selected option: How to Deal with Judgement
We have all been on the receiving end of comments like "ADHD is just a label", "We are all a bit autistic", and "Children just need boundaries".
They are the last thing you need to hear when you're handling a meltdown in Asda. At best, they're annoying and at worst, they drain your last strands of self-esteem and leave you managing a meltdown of your own.
Mark Allen, lapsed comedian, host of the Neuroshambles podcast, and frazzled Dad of three neurodivergent children, shines a light onto some of the misguided things people say to parents of autistic and ADHD kids in this humorous and relatable talk.
He will unpick the misconceptions behind these ill-informed comments, suggest ways to respond without losing your cool and give you the confidence to know you are parenting in the best way for your kids!
Selected option: Exhibitors
It's a great time to talk with exhibitors when the sessions are on as it's quieter in the exhibitor hall. Great for those who struggle in noisy environments.
Selected option: How to Deal with Judgement
We have all been on the receiving end of comments like "ADHD is just a label", "We are all a bit autistic", and "Children just need boundaries".
They are the last thing you need to hear when you're handling a meltdown in Asda. At best, they're annoying and at worst, they drain your last strands of self-esteem and leave you managing a meltdown of your own.
Mark Allen, lapsed comedian, host of the Neuroshambles podcast, and frazzled Dad of three neurodivergent children, shines a light onto some of the misguided things people say to parents of autistic and ADHD kids in this humorous and relatable talk.
He will unpick the misconceptions behind these ill-informed comments, suggest ways to respond without losing your cool and give you the confidence to know you are parenting in the best way for your kids!
Selected option: Exhibitors
It's a great time to talk with exhibitors when the sessions are on as it's quieter in the exhibitor hall. Great for those who struggle in noisy environments.
Session 3 Details: 12:30–13:45pm
Pick one option • tap a tile to read more • Tip: the exhibitor hall is quieter during sessions
Selected option: SEND Law
A talk on the key local authority obligations within the SEND system and how parents can enforce their child's rights.
Selected option: Peer Support
Peer support means talking to other parent carers who have lived experience of navigating the system.
You can come with a specific question, a current worry, or something you’re trying to figure out — and get practical insight the same day.
Peer support can help with:
- Understanding school processes, inclusion, and support for learning
- Making sense of health pathways, referrals, and services
- Navigating social care, assessments, and support options
- Knowing what questions to ask and where to go next
Peer support isn’t legal advice or a replacement for professional services — but it is a safe, informed space to sense-check decisions and feel less alone.
Selected option: Education staff lunch and networking
A buffet-style lunch and informal networking time for education staff (paid tickets only).
Selected option: SEND Law
A talk on the key local authority obligations within the SEND system and how parents can enforce their child's rights.
Selected option: Peer Support
Peer support means talking to other parent carers who have lived experience of navigating the system.
You can come with a specific question, a current worry, or something you’re trying to figure out — and get practical insight the same day.
Peer support can help with:
- Understanding school processes, inclusion, and support for learning
- Making sense of health pathways, referrals, and services
- Navigating social care, assessments, and support options
- Knowing what questions to ask and where to go next
Peer support isn’t legal advice or a replacement for professional services — but it is a safe, informed space to sense-check decisions and feel less alone.
Selected option: Education staff lunch and networking
A buffet-style lunch and informal networking time for education staff (paid tickets only).
Selected option: Why behaviour happens
Behaviour is communication. When children are struggling, their behaviour is often how they show it.
This session looks at why behaviour happens — including unmet needs, stress, sensory overload, and communication difficulties — and what helps, both at home and in school.
Selected option: NDCS Community Connector
Join us for a warm and informative session hosted by the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS), designed to support families and professionals working with deaf children.
We will start with a brief introduction to hearing loss and how it can affect communication and learning. You will hear about the support NDCS offers, including useful resources and Advice and Guidance Officers (AGOs), plus how to access local services and community support.
We will also share a bit about our roles as Community Connectors, helping families build connections and feel supported.
To finish, there will be a chance for a Q&A, where we will be happy to answer questions and share our experiences as parents of a deaf child.
Selected option: Post-16 transition into employment
Lucy will explore the vital transition from education to employment for neurodivergent young people.
She will shine a light on the challenges families may encounter, as well as the opportunities that arise during this stage of life.
Through practical insights, success stories and lived experiences, Lucy will share approaches that help create smoother pathways into work.
Selected option: Why behaviour happens
Behaviour is communication. When children are struggling, their behaviour is often how they show it.
This session looks at why behaviour happens — including unmet needs, stress, sensory overload, and communication difficulties — and what helps, both at home and in school.
Selected option: NDCS Community Connector
Join us for a warm and informative session hosted by the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS), designed to support families and professionals working with deaf children.
We will start with a brief introduction to hearing loss and how it can affect communication and learning. You will hear about the support NDCS offers, including useful resources and Advice and Guidance Officers (AGOs), plus how to access local services and community support.
We will also share a bit about our roles as Community Connectors, helping families build connections and feel supported.
To finish, there will be a chance for a Q&A, where we will be happy to answer questions and share our experiences as parents of a deaf child.
Selected option: Post-16 transition into employment
Lucy will explore the vital transition from education to employment for neurodivergent young people.
She will shine a light on the challenges families may encounter, as well as the opportunities that arise during this stage of life.
Through practical insights, success stories and lived experiences, Lucy will share approaches that help create smoother pathways into work.
Selected option: Building Confidence and Interest in Maths
Join the Educational Psychology Team for an interactive workshop for parents, carers, and school staff who want to help their children and young people feel more confident and motivated in maths.
Together, we will explore practical, evidence-based strategies to foster interest and a positive attitude towards maths.
Whether your child is in early education or approaching adulthood, this session offers insights and tools to help you support lifelong maths skills.
Selected option: Exhibitors
It's a great time to talk with exhibitors when sessions are on, as it’s usually quieter in the exhibitor hall — helpful if you find noise and crowds difficult.
Don’t forget to get some lunch too.
Selected option: Building Confidence and Interest in Maths
Join the Educational Psychology Team for an interactive workshop for parents, carers, and school staff who want to help their children and young people feel more confident and motivated in maths.
Together, we will explore practical, evidence-based strategies to foster interest and a positive attitude towards maths.
Whether your child is in early education or approaching adulthood, this session offers insights and tools to help you support lifelong maths skills.
Selected option: Exhibitors
It's a great time to talk with exhibitors when sessions are on, as it’s usually quieter in the exhibitor hall — helpful if you find noise and crowds difficult.
Don’t forget to get some lunch too.
Session 4 Details: 1:45–2:40pm
Pick one option • tap a tile to read more • Tip: the exhibitor hall is quieter during sessions
Selected option: EHCNAs – A Parent’s Guide
An Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) is the first step to obtaining an Education, Health and Care Plan.
Learn about when parents and carers might want to make an EHCNA request, what that request should look like, the legal test for assessment, what happens in an assessment and what to do if a request is refused.
Selected option: Peer Support
Peer support means talking to other parent carers who have lived experience of navigating the system.
You can come with a specific question, a current worry, or something you’re trying to figure out — and get practical insight the same day.
Peer support can cover:
- Understanding school processes, inclusion, and support for learning
- Making sense of health pathways, referrals, and services
- Navigating social care, assessments, and support options
- Knowing what questions to ask and where to go next
Peer support isn’t legal advice or a replacement for professional services — but it is a safe, informed space to share experiences, sense-check decisions, and feel less alone while dealing with complex systems.
Selected option: What is needed for some, benefits all
This engaging keynote looks at how small, thoughtful changes in teaching can make a big difference for every learner.
Drawing on his work across the Chiltern Learning Trust and his classroom experience, Amjad Ali shares practical strategies that are low effort but high impact, supporting pupils with additional needs while improving learning for all.
Attendees will leave with realistic, ready-to-use ideas and a clear sense of how consistency between school and home can strengthen outcomes for children.
Selected option: EHCNAs – A Parent’s Guide
An Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) is the first step to obtaining an Education, Health and Care Plan.
Learn about when parents and carers might want to make an EHCNA request, what that request should look like, the legal test for assessment, what happens in an assessment and what to do if a request is refused.
Selected option: Peer Support
Peer support means talking to other parent carers who have lived experience of navigating the system.
You can come with a specific question, a current worry, or something you’re trying to figure out — and get practical insight the same day.
Peer support can cover:
- Understanding school processes, inclusion, and support for learning
- Making sense of health pathways, referrals, and services
- Navigating social care, assessments, and support options
- Knowing what questions to ask and where to go next
Peer support isn’t legal advice or a replacement for professional services — but it is a safe, informed space to share experiences, sense-check decisions, and feel less alone while dealing with complex systems.
Selected option: What is needed for some, benefits all
This engaging keynote looks at how small, thoughtful changes in teaching can make a big difference for every learner.
Drawing on his work across the Chiltern Learning Trust and his classroom experience, Amjad Ali shares practical strategies that are low effort but high impact, supporting pupils with additional needs while improving learning for all.
Attendees will leave with realistic, ready-to-use ideas and a clear sense of how consistency between school and home can strengthen outcomes for children.
Selected option: FAQ on EHCNA
This school-staff-only session provides a focused opportunity to ask questions about needs assessments and EHCPs and how they work in practice.
It is designed to clarify common areas of uncertainty, explore what good information looks like from an education perspective, and support consistent understanding across settings.
Questions will be gathered in advance and on the day, and Kevin will respond to common themes rather than individual cases.
Selected option: Autism, Masking and Mental Health
Many autistic and neurodivergent people feel like they have to hide their true selves, wearing a "mask" to fit into a world that often misunderstands them.
This talk explores the latest research and lived experiences of masking from childhood into adulthood. We’ll challenge misconceptions, uncover the realities of masking, and discuss ways to reduce it for those who wish to.
This session is for anyone — autistic individuals, allies, professionals, and anyone eager to deepen their understanding.
Selected option: SEND and You SENDIAS
Join us for a session introducing SEND and You, SENDIAS Service. We will share who we are, what we do and how we support children, young people and families in navigating SEND processes in education settings.
The talk will cover the key services we provide, practical ways we can help, and answer your questions during an interactive Q&A segment.
Selected option: FAQ on EHCNA
This school-staff-only session provides a focused opportunity to ask questions about needs assessments and EHCPs and how they work in practice.
It is designed to clarify common areas of uncertainty, explore what good information looks like from an education perspective, and support consistent understanding across settings.
Questions will be gathered in advance and on the day, and Kevin will respond to common themes rather than individual cases.
Selected option: Autism, Masking and Mental Health
Many autistic and neurodivergent people feel like they have to hide their true selves, wearing a "mask" to fit into a world that often misunderstands them.
This talk explores the latest research and lived experiences of masking from childhood into adulthood. We’ll challenge misconceptions, uncover the realities of masking, and discuss ways to reduce it for those who wish to.
This session is for anyone — autistic individuals, allies, professionals, and anyone eager to deepen their understanding.
Selected option: SEND and You SENDIAS
Join us for a session introducing SEND and You, SENDIAS Service. We will share who we are, what we do and how we support children, young people and families in navigating SEND processes in education settings.
The talk will cover the key services we provide, practical ways we can help, and answer your questions during an interactive Q&A segment.
Selected option: How can Dads show up better for our neurodivergent kids?
"I prefer Mummy to you, Daddy. She doesn't shout at me!"
That moment of blunt honesty from his autistic son, Jay, sent Mark Allen on a journey to rethink the kind of parent his neurodivergent children actually needed.
Mark reflects on his shift from angry, shouty Dad to a more compassionate, collaborative caregiver, and explores how traditional ideas of masculinity can clash with the needs of neurodivergent children — and how small changes in understanding behaviour can make a big difference.
Selected option: Exhibitors
It’s a great time to talk with exhibitors while sessions are on, as it’s quieter in the exhibitor hall — especially helpful for anyone who finds busy, noisy spaces difficult.
Don’t forget to grab some lunch too.
Selected option: How can Dads show up better for our neurodivergent kids?
"I prefer Mummy to you, Daddy. She doesn't shout at me!"
That moment of blunt honesty from his autistic son, Jay, sent Mark Allen on a journey to rethink the kind of parent his neurodivergent children actually needed.
Mark reflects on his shift from angry, shouty Dad to a more compassionate, collaborative caregiver, and explores how traditional ideas of masculinity can clash with the needs of neurodivergent children — and how small changes in understanding behaviour can make a big difference.
Selected option: Exhibitors
It’s a great time to talk with exhibitors while sessions are on, as it’s quieter in the exhibitor hall — especially helpful for anyone who finds busy, noisy spaces difficult.
Don’t forget to grab some lunch too.
Session 5: 3:00–3:55
Pick one option • tap a tile to read more • Tip: the exhibitor hall is quieter during sessions
Selected option: Local social care support
This session explains what support parent carers and families can expect from local social care, including the Early Help offer, Family Hubs, carers assessments, and young carers assessments.
It will also cover who may be eligible and how to access support from Bristol City Council's Social Care team.
Selected option: What does inclusion really mean?
The latest Ofsted framework places a renewed emphasis on inclusion, equity, and high-quality provision for all learners. While this is a positive step, it also brings real challenges for mainstream schools supporting increasingly complex needs.
This session explores what the framework really means for inclusion, how inspectors are interpreting these expectations, and the practical realities for school leaders and classroom practitioners.
Led by senior leaders of Briarwood Special School (Outstanding in all areas), the session shares strategies for meeting diverse needs while balancing accountability with compassion.
Selected option: You’re Not Asking for Too Much
Many parent carers worry about whether they are asking for "too much" when seeking support for their child.
In this accessible and supportive session, Kelly Jarvis explores what reasonable adjustments look like in practice, how they sit within Ordinarily Available Provision, and how schools should be meeting children's needs both with and without formal plans or diagnoses.
Parents will leave feeling clearer, more confident, and better equipped to advocate for their child.
Selected option: Local social care support
This session explains what support parent carers and families can expect from local social care, including the Early Help offer, Family Hubs, carers assessments, and young carers assessments.
It will also cover who may be eligible and how to access support from Bristol City Council's Social Care team.
Selected option: What does inclusion really mean?
The latest Ofsted framework places a renewed emphasis on inclusion, equity, and high-quality provision for all learners. While this is a positive step, it also brings real challenges for mainstream schools supporting increasingly complex needs.
This session explores what the framework really means for inclusion, how inspectors are interpreting these expectations, and the practical realities for school leaders and classroom practitioners.
Led by senior leaders of Briarwood Special School (Outstanding in all areas), the session shares strategies for meeting diverse needs while balancing accountability with compassion.
Selected option: You’re Not Asking for Too Much
Many parent carers worry about whether they are asking for "too much" when seeking support for their child.
In this accessible and supportive session, Kelly Jarvis explores what reasonable adjustments look like in practice, how they sit within Ordinarily Available Provision, and how schools should be meeting children's needs both with and without formal plans or diagnoses.
Parents will leave feeling clearer, more confident, and better equipped to advocate for their child.
Selected option: Exhibitors
It's a great time to talk with exhibitors when the sessions are on as it's quieter in the exhibitor hall. Great for those who struggle in noisy environments. Don't forget to get some lunch too.
Selected option: Exhibitors
It's a great time to talk with exhibitors when the sessions are on as it's quieter in the exhibitor hall. Great for those who struggle in noisy environments. Don't forget to get some lunch too.