Questions on SEND: Developing Inclusive Practice as an Early Career Teacher

Does a child need a diagnosis to get support in the classroom? What is adaptive teaching? How can I learn from the parents of children with SEND?

Every child deserves to feel understood, valued, and included, yet standing in front of a class of learners, each with their own strengths and needs, can feel overwhelming for an Early Career Teacher (ECT). With answers from a diverse panel of ten leading SEND specialists, this dip-in-and-out guide is an essential starting point for fostering an inclusive classroom, with practical strategies and compassionate perspectives rooted in real-life experience.

Each chapter focuses on a key area of SEND support and teaching, providing answers to common questions and expert advice on best practices. From adapting your teaching and classroom environment to working effectively with families, teaching assistants, and external professionals, it provides actionable advice to help you navigate the complexities of SEND support. Contributors bring a powerful mix of professional expertise and lived experience, while guiding reflection questions from the editor encourage you to pause, consider your approach, and identify steps to strengthen your SEND practice.

Supporting learners with special educational needs is one of the most rewarding and important aspects of education. It isn’t about perfection – it’s about progress, curiosity and care. This book will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to support every child and is essential reading for ECTs and a valuable staffroom resource for all educators.

Georgina Durrant is a former teacher and SENDCo, respected national speaker, and podcaster dedicated to championing inclusion in education. Georgina shares her expertise through her acclaimed books, including the award‑winning SEND Strategies for the Primary Years, and her popular podcast SEND in the Experts, which brings practical insights to educators and families. Her thought leadership extends to keynote speaking engagements and contributions across major media platforms. Recognised with the prestigious Nasen Award for Positive Media Impact, Georgina is widely regarded as a leading voice in SEND education. Passionate about equity and accessibility, she continues to influence practice and policy, empowering schools and communities to embrace inclusive approaches that support every learner to thrive.

With answers from:

Frances Akinde, Gary Aubin, Amy Baxter, Dr Ahmar Ferguson, Abigail Gray, Lisa Henshall, Lynn How, Natalie Packer, Dr Helen Ross and James Searjeant