Only available after purchasing a free or donation entry ticket from the previous page
- Step 1: Click the ‘Read more & Book’ text under each talk title
- Step 2: Add to basket (only 1 talk per time slot)
- Step 3: Move to next time slot and repeat step 1 & 2
- Make sure you’ve only booked ONE ticket per time slot
Please book one talk from the choices below between 10-11am | March 3rd
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Peer Support Session| Bristol Parent Carers, Bristol Autism Support & SEND and you
Parent Carers & Families only
Drop in (between 10-11am) for a 1:1 peer support session with Bristol Parent Carers and Bristol Autism Support.
A 1:1 peer support session for SEND parent carers provides a private space to talk with someone who understands your challenges. You’ll receive tailored advice, emotional support, and practical tips to help you navigate your journey.
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Peer Support Session| Bristol Parent Carers, Bristol Autism Support & SEND and you
Parent Carers & Families only
Drop in (between 10-11am) for a 1:1 peer support session with Bristol Parent Carers and Bristol Autism Support.
A 1:1 peer support session for SEND parent carers provides a private space to talk with someone who understands your challenges. You’ll receive tailored advice, emotional support, and practical tips to help you navigate your journey.
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Carers Academy | Wills and Trusts for Special Needs
Parent Carers & Families only
Join Rhiannon Gogh from Carers Academy for a session on Wills and Trusts. Rhiannon is a Chartered Financial Advisor and mum to an autistic child.
Wills and Trusts are not just for wealthy families. They are an important tool to ensure your child is supported if you're no longer around.
The session is jargon free and super friendly; come along and learn how to protect your child's financial future.
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Carers Academy | Wills and Trusts for Special Needs
Parent Carers & Families only
Join Rhiannon Gogh from Carers Academy for a session on Wills and Trusts. Rhiannon is a Chartered Financial Advisor and mum to an autistic child.
Wills and Trusts are not just for wealthy families. They are an important tool to ensure your child is supported if you're no longer around.
The session is jargon free and super friendly; come along and learn how to protect your child's financial future.
Please book one talk from the choices below between 11:15-12:15pm | March 3rd
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Mediating Learning Support Approach
For all
This MeLSA (Mediating Learning Support Approach) session will focus on mindset.
Mindset is a set of beliefs and expectations about yourself, your life, and the world around you. It influences how you think, feel, and behave.
It is just as important to explore your mindset as an adult (parent or school staff) supporting a learner as it is to explore a learner’s mindset.
This session will give you knowledge and tools to explore mindset.
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Mediating Learning Support Approach
For all
This MeLSA (Mediating Learning Support Approach) session will focus on mindset.
Mindset is a set of beliefs and expectations about yourself, your life, and the world around you. It influences how you think, feel, and behave.
It is just as important to explore your mindset as an adult (parent or school staff) supporting a learner as it is to explore a learner’s mindset.
This session will give you knowledge and tools to explore mindset.
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Rewriting the rule book for our neurodivergent kids | Mark Allen
Parent Carers & families only
Mark Allen hosts a fortnightly podcast called Neuroshambles, where he chats with other parents of neurodivergent kids about the lighter side of life in their chaotic households.
In this session, Mark will share his journey as a parent of three children with contrasting needs (autism, ADHD, PDA). As an undiagnosed neurotypical, he has learned to embrace the joy of ripping up society's rulebook in favor of writing one tailored to the unique needs of his family.
This humorous and relatable session offers a positive, neuro-affirming perspective on tackling the challenges parents face while raising neurodivergent children.
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Rewriting the rule book for our neurodivergent kids | Mark Allen
Parent Carers & families only
Mark Allen hosts a fortnightly podcast called Neuroshambles, where he chats with other parents of neurodivergent kids about the lighter side of life in their chaotic households.
In this session, Mark will share his journey as a parent of three children with contrasting needs (autism, ADHD, PDA). As an undiagnosed neurotypical, he has learned to embrace the joy of ripping up society's rulebook in favor of writing one tailored to the unique needs of his family.
This humorous and relatable session offers a positive, neuro-affirming perspective on tackling the challenges parents face while raising neurodivergent children.
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Families, schools and SEND: moving forward positively in challenging times | Gary Aubin and Stephen Hall
Parent Carers & families only
Gary Aubin, co-author of 'The Parent's Guide to SEND' (released in March 2025), wrote his Master's dissertation on effective partnership working with the families of children with SEND.
This session will explore the challenges faced by families and educational settings in working together for the benefit of the child or young person. Gain insights from both perspectives and discover practical ways to foster meaningful co-production.
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Families, schools and SEND: moving forward positively in challenging times | Gary Aubin and Stephen Hall
Parent Carers & families only
Gary Aubin, co-author of 'The Parent's Guide to SEND' (released in March 2025), wrote his Master's dissertation on effective partnership working with the families of children with SEND.
This session will explore the challenges faced by families and educational settings in working together for the benefit of the child or young person. Gain insights from both perspectives and discover practical ways to foster meaningful co-production.
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Authentic school engagement with parents and families | Laura Page
For all
Laura Page is the founder of Schools Supported, providing specialist consultancy and training in special educational needs and safeguarding.
In this session, Laura will discuss the importance of innovative practices and utilising the expertise of parents and families, especially given the scarcity of resources in the sector. She will explore how effective meetings and communication can contribute to professional development and why they matter for all children.
The session will delve into topics such as intersecting identities, cultural sensitivities, the unintentional messages schools communicate, common mistakes, understanding each other, and asking meaningful questions. There will also be a chance for Q&A.
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Authentic school engagement with parents and families | Laura Page
For all
Laura Page is the founder of Schools Supported, providing specialist consultancy and training in special educational needs and safeguarding.
In this session, Laura will discuss the importance of innovative practices and utilising the expertise of parents and families, especially given the scarcity of resources in the sector. She will explore how effective meetings and communication can contribute to professional development and why they matter for all children.
The session will delve into topics such as intersecting identities, cultural sensitivities, the unintentional messages schools communicate, common mistakes, understanding each other, and asking meaningful questions. There will also be a chance for Q&A.
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Supporting Families and Schools: Early Help in Social Care | Bristol City Council
For all
Join Bristol City Council, Social Care Hub, for an informative session on Early Help in Social Care, designed for both families and schools.
We'll explore how early support can make a difference in addressing challenges and how local services can work together to help children and families thrive.
This session will provide practical information and guidance to ensure you know how to access the support you need when it matters most.
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Supporting Families and Schools: Early Help in Social Care | Bristol City Council
For all
Join Bristol City Council, Social Care Hub, for an informative session on Early Help in Social Care, designed for both families and schools.
We'll explore how early support can make a difference in addressing challenges and how local services can work together to help children and families thrive.
This session will provide practical information and guidance to ensure you know how to access the support you need when it matters most.
Please book one talk from the choices below between 12:30-1:30pm | March 3rd
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Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments – What families need to know | SEND Advocacy
Parent Carers & Families only
Join Alice Marshment from SEND Advocacy for expert guidance on securing vital support for children with SEND.
With a blend of legal expertise and personal experience, Alice will help you navigate England's complex SEND system. This session covers the Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment process, including the legal test, application steps, and actions to take if the request is refused.
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Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments – What families need to know | SEND Advocacy
Parent Carers & Families only
Join Alice Marshment from SEND Advocacy for expert guidance on securing vital support for children with SEND.
With a blend of legal expertise and personal experience, Alice will help you navigate England's complex SEND system. This session covers the Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment process, including the legal test, application steps, and actions to take if the request is refused.
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Parent Carers, Know your Rights | Kevin McManamon
Parent Carers & families only
Join Kevin McManamon, a Partner at Geldards, for expert guidance on Education Law and Mental Capacity Law.
With years of experience advising families, Kevin will help you navigate the complexities of legal issues in education and support individuals with decision-making challenges. This session is ideal for families looking to better understand their legal responsibilities and rights.
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Parent Carers, Know your Rights | Kevin McManamon
Parent Carers & families only
Join Kevin McManamon, a Partner at Geldards, for expert guidance on Education Law and Mental Capacity Law.
With years of experience advising families, Kevin will help you navigate the complexities of legal issues in education and support individuals with decision-making challenges. This session is ideal for families looking to better understand their legal responsibilities and rights.
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Disability Living Allowance (DLA) | Bristol Autism Support
Parent Carers & families only
Drop in (between 10-11am) to find out more about Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and how it can support your child with SEND.
DLA is a non-means-tested benefit that provides financial assistance, and children with SEND may be eligible even before a diagnosis. Join this session to learn about the eligibility criteria, how to apply, and get guidance on the application process from Bristol Parent Carers and Bristol Autism Support.
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Disability Living Allowance (DLA) | Bristol Autism Support
Parent Carers & families only
Drop in (between 10-11am) to find out more about Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and how it can support your child with SEND.
DLA is a non-means-tested benefit that provides financial assistance, and children with SEND may be eligible even before a diagnosis. Join this session to learn about the eligibility criteria, how to apply, and get guidance on the application process from Bristol Parent Carers and Bristol Autism Support.
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Introduction to Autism and Eating Difficulties | Neurodiverse Training
For all
Join Loren Snow, an autism consultant and trainer, for an overview of why autistic individuals may face challenges with eating.
Loren will cover sensory, emotional, and practical factors affecting food preferences and mealtimes, offering insights and strategies to create positive eating experiences.
This session is perfect for educators, parents, and carers seeking a better understanding of autism and eating.
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Introduction to Autism and Eating Difficulties | Neurodiverse Training
For all
Join Loren Snow, an autism consultant and trainer, for an overview of why autistic individuals may face challenges with eating.
Loren will cover sensory, emotional, and practical factors affecting food preferences and mealtimes, offering insights and strategies to create positive eating experiences.
This session is perfect for educators, parents, and carers seeking a better understanding of autism and eating.
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Speech and Language 1:1 advice | Sirona Care and Health
For all
Join Sirona’s Speech and Language Therapy team for a 1:1 session to ask any questions about speech and language development.
Whether you have concerns about your child’s communication skills or language delay, or need strategies to support their progress, this session provides tailored advice, guidance, and practical tips specific to your family's needs.
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Speech and Language 1:1 advice | Sirona Care and Health
For all
Join Sirona’s Speech and Language Therapy team for a 1:1 session to ask any questions about speech and language development.
Whether you have concerns about your child’s communication skills or language delay, or need strategies to support their progress, this session provides tailored advice, guidance, and practical tips specific to your family's needs.
Please book one talk from the choices below between 1:45-2:45pm | March 3rd
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Emotionally Based School Avoidance and Neurodivergent Children and Young People | Bristol City Council – Bristol Autism Team and Educational Psychology Service
For all
This session offers an overview of the Department for Education funded project Pathways to Short Breaks, alongside an in-depth exploration of key insights and strategies.
The tips and strategies shared will be helpful for families and schools supporting neurodivergent children and young people who are experiencing Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA). Many of the strategies will apply to children and young people who are also not neurodivergent.
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Emotionally Based School Avoidance and Neurodivergent Children and Young People | Bristol City Council – Bristol Autism Team and Educational Psychology Service
For all
This session offers an overview of the Department for Education funded project Pathways to Short Breaks, alongside an in-depth exploration of key insights and strategies.
The tips and strategies shared will be helpful for families and schools supporting neurodivergent children and young people who are experiencing Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA). Many of the strategies will apply to children and young people who are also not neurodivergent.
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Education, Health and Care Plan Appeals | Kevin McManamon
For all
Join Kevin McManamon, a Partner at Geldards, who specialises in Education Law and Mental Capacity Law.
With extensive experience advising families, Kevin provides expert guidance on navigating the complexities of legal issues in education and supporting individuals with decision-making challenges.
This session is ideal for those seeking to better understand the Education, Health and Care Plan appeals process. There will also be time for Q and A.
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Education, Health and Care Plan Appeals | Kevin McManamon
For all
Join Kevin McManamon, a Partner at Geldards, who specialises in Education Law and Mental Capacity Law.
With extensive experience advising families, Kevin provides expert guidance on navigating the complexities of legal issues in education and supporting individuals with decision-making challenges.
This session is ideal for those seeking to better understand the Education, Health and Care Plan appeals process. There will also be time for Q and A.
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Specific Learning Difficulties | Neuroteachers Ltd
SOLD OUT For all
Catrina Lowri is an experienced special needs teacher and SENDCo who has worked in both mainstream and specialist settings. She is passionate about neurodiversity in schools and neuroinclusion.
This session will provide a clear introduction to Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) including dyslexia, dyspraxia and dyscalculia.
We’ll explore common challenges faced by children and young people with SpLD, effective strategies for support at home and in educational settings, and practical tips for promoting strengths and confidence.
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Specific Learning Difficulties | Neuroteachers Ltd
SOLD OUT For all
Catrina Lowri is an experienced special needs teacher and SENDCo who has worked in both mainstream and specialist settings. She is passionate about neurodiversity in schools and neuroinclusion.
This session will provide a clear introduction to Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) including dyslexia, dyspraxia and dyscalculia.
We’ll explore common challenges faced by children and young people with SpLD, effective strategies for support at home and in educational settings, and practical tips for promoting strengths and confidence.
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Occupational Therapy 1:1 advice | Sirona Care and Health
For all
Join Sirona’s Occupational Therapy team for a 1:1 session to ask any questions about your child’s physical and sensory developmental needs.
Whether you’re seeking support with fine or gross motor skills, sensory processing challenges, or everyday activities like dressing and feeding, this session offers tailored advice, practical strategies and guidance to help your child thrive.
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Occupational Therapy 1:1 advice | Sirona Care and Health
For all
Join Sirona’s Occupational Therapy team for a 1:1 session to ask any questions about your child’s physical and sensory developmental needs.
Whether you’re seeking support with fine or gross motor skills, sensory processing challenges, or everyday activities like dressing and feeding, this session offers tailored advice, practical strategies and guidance to help your child thrive.
Please book one talk from the choices below between 3-4pm | March 3rd | We The Curious
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The SEND and Inclusion Strategy | What it means for your school, your family or your service
For all
Come and join us to learn about the SEND Strategy and how it will help families, schools and services over the next 3 years in Bristol.
In this 60-minute session, we will talk about how the strategy was created and why it is important. We will also discuss how Bristol City Council, local health services, school leaders, and Bristol Parent Carers plan to deliver the actions in the strategy.
We will also spend 25 minutes in an interactive session exploring your priorities in relation to the strategy and what these actions could look like for your family, your setting, or your workplace.
This is a great opportunity for families, schools, health, and social care staff to work together and ensure we’re all on the same page in supporting children with SEND in Bristol through the strategy.
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The SEND and Inclusion Strategy | What it means for your school, your family or your service
For all
Come and join us to learn about the SEND Strategy and how it will help families, schools and services over the next 3 years in Bristol.
In this 60-minute session, we will talk about how the strategy was created and why it is important. We will also discuss how Bristol City Council, local health services, school leaders, and Bristol Parent Carers plan to deliver the actions in the strategy.
We will also spend 25 minutes in an interactive session exploring your priorities in relation to the strategy and what these actions could look like for your family, your setting, or your workplace.
This is a great opportunity for families, schools, health, and social care staff to work together and ensure we’re all on the same page in supporting children with SEND in Bristol through the strategy.
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Hearing the child’s voice at the heart of SEMH intervention | Hamish and Milo
For all
SEMH =social, emotional and mental health
With children’s mental health at a critical level, hearing the child’s voice and their experience of the world is vital for them to feel safe and able to develop the essential social and emotional skills for life and learning.
How do we then create the right environment, ensure relational practice, and a culture and approach that gives children opportunity to express their experiences and feelings whilst actively gaining the skills they need to navigate the world around them?
The session will highlight how to:
- Prioritise social and emotional literacy to increase emotional regulation and engagement in learning
- Unlock the child’s voice with specific strategies
- Create the right environment and approach to ensure the child’s voice is heard
- Measure impact, identify patterns and plan for provision and intervention
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Hearing the child’s voice at the heart of SEMH intervention | Hamish and Milo
For all
SEMH =social, emotional and mental health
With children’s mental health at a critical level, hearing the child’s voice and their experience of the world is vital for them to feel safe and able to develop the essential social and emotional skills for life and learning.
How do we then create the right environment, ensure relational practice, and a culture and approach that gives children opportunity to express their experiences and feelings whilst actively gaining the skills they need to navigate the world around them?
The session will highlight how to:
- Prioritise social and emotional literacy to increase emotional regulation and engagement in learning
- Unlock the child’s voice with specific strategies
- Create the right environment and approach to ensure the child’s voice is heard
- Measure impact, identify patterns and plan for provision and intervention
-
What is co-production, why is it important, and how to do it | Bristol Parent Carers
Education, health or social care staff. (Families are welcome but it may not be entirely relevant.)
Join us for a session where we’ll explore what "co-production" means and why it’s so important for supporting children and young people with SEND.
We’ll discuss how education, health, and social care services can work together with families to create better outcomes and how best to engage with Bristol Parent Carers.
This event is aimed at professionals working in SEND services, but families are welcome to join and share their thoughts. It’s a great chance to learn more about the power of working together as a team.
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What is co-production, why is it important, and how to do it | Bristol Parent Carers
Education, health or social care staff. (Families are welcome but it may not be entirely relevant.)
Join us for a session where we’ll explore what "co-production" means and why it’s so important for supporting children and young people with SEND.
We’ll discuss how education, health, and social care services can work together with families to create better outcomes and how best to engage with Bristol Parent Carers.
This event is aimed at professionals working in SEND services, but families are welcome to join and share their thoughts. It’s a great chance to learn more about the power of working together as a team.