Introduction to Nonviolent Communication
Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is an approach to enhance communication, understanding, and connection based on the principles of nonviolence and humanistic psychology. It is not an attempt to end disagreements, but rather a way that aims to increase connection and empathy to understand and meet everyone's needs.
This session is led by Ian Hunkin
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Leadership and Management Course
The course develops leaders as reflective practitioners and course content can be flexible to respond to the needs of the course participants.
This face-to-face course includes five training sessions, a shadowing day in May/June and a celebration meal to conclude.
Tutors: Sara Attra and Gill Barrett
Location: Manor Green School, Maidenhead
See flyer for more details.
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Research Book Club 2025
Join Gill Barratt to review ‘The Balancing Act’ by Charlotte Hacking and Dominic Wyse. A new approach to teaching reading and writing to help put the ‘joy back into reading’.
You don’t have to have read this book as the session will provide a summary and explanation of their new teaching model and some worked examples. Gill has also created a teaching template using the pedagogy outlined in the book which she will share.
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Memory for Learning
Enhancing Retention and Recall in all Learners…
Defining Areas of Need/Specific Neurodiverse Differences
Understanding How to Identify and Support
Gain a Toolbox of Practical Strategies and Approaches
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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Navigating Health Provision Network and Support Group
SWALSS is delighted that Emma Smith of ESC Management Services will be running our Navigating Health Provision Group for member schools. Emma Smith is an independent adviser specialising in the delivery of health services in the school setting. This course will focus on the physical health needs of children and young people.
Four sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Tuesday 25 June 2024
Tuesday 15 October 2024
Tuesday 4 February 2025
Tuesday 10 June 2025
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Trauma-Informed School Leadership
An opportunity to work together under the expert guidance of Dr Karen Treisman MBE to further develop the relational practices in our schools to support everyone to thrive and learn. Full course details can be found here
Eight online webinars
Session 1 – Thursday 21st November 2024, 1.30-4.30pm (half day)
Session 2 – Wednesday 4th December 2024, 1.30-4.30pm (half day)
Session 3 – Wednesday 5th February 2025, 3-4.30pm (twilight session)
Session 4 – Tuesday 4th March 2025, 3-4.30pm (twilight session)
Session 5 – Wednesday 30th April 2025, 3-4.30pm (twilight session)
Session 6 – Wednesday 25th June 2025, 3-4.30pm (twilight session)
Session 7 – Wednesday 17th September 2025, 3-4.30pm (twilight session)
Session 8 – Wednesday 26th November 2025, 3-4.30pm (twilight session)
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Behaviour Network and Support Group 2024-25
Supporting children and young people with Behaviour is one of the most important elements of a special school’s work. Facilitated by Aisla Maclean-Wood of Westfield Arts College, Former Regional Lead for Therapeutic Thinking Dorset, each session includes a presentation and dedicated time for problem solving and advice. See Flyer for more details.
There are 3 sessions delivered via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Wednesday 2 October 2024
Wednesday 5 February 2025
Wednesday 4 June 2025
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Phonics Network and Support Group 2024-25
Meeting three times each year, sessions provide a mixture of presentations, information and discussion focused on phonics teaching issues of the day.
We are thrilled that the ever popular Dr Sarah Moseley has agreed to facilitate the group for us once again.
Three sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Thursday 10 October 2024
Thursday 6 February 2025
Thursday 19 June 2025
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Governors Network and Support Group 2024-25
Meeting three times each year, the group is an opportunity for special school governors to understand further the demands placed on Headteachers by the DfE, Local Authorities and the stakeholders they serve. You receive the most up-to-date information on special school governance, discuss best practice and ask questions.
Delivered via Zoom, 5.30 - 7pm
Monday 21 October 2024
Monday 10 February 2025
Monday 12 May 2025
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Learning Centred Leadership 2024-25
An induction programme for new Headteachers in special schools.
Your arrival as the new Headteacher is a key moment, both for you and for your new school. How will you settle in? Will you be happy? And will you go on to provide the kind of confident and assured leadership the school is looking for? So much will depend on the start you make in the school, won’t it, and the support you receive from those around you in those crucial early months?
See flyer for more details.
The Course Leader for our 2024-2025 induction programme is Neil Galloway, ex-special school headteacher/LA advisor and serving special school SIP.
Dates of Programme
Tuesday 15 October 2024
Tuesday 3 December 2024
Tuesday 11 February 2025
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Reading Subject Leadership Group 2024-25
This is a Network and Support Group for Reading Subject Leaders - meeting once a term each academic year - to help share and promote good practice and a deep understanding of the School Inspection Framework’s sharp focus on Reading led by Dr Sarah Mosley.
Three sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Tuesday 24th September 2024
Tuesday 11th February 2025
Tuesday 17th June 2025
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Nurture Professional Support Group 2024-25
We are delighted to be working in collaboration with The Mulberry Bush School in order to offer a SWALSS Nurture Network and Support Group. Meeting three times each year, our newest support group will provide a termly space for school staff wishing to grow and develop nurturing practices to meet, share best practice, contribute to professional development and provide reflective support to colleagues. Like our other professional support groups, the format of each session will be a blend of presentation and discussion. Delivery will be by Mulberry Bush therapeutic trainers and outreach practitioners.
Dates for the academic year 2024-25
Wednesday 16 October 2024
Wednesday 12 February 2025
Wednesday 14 May 2025
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Supporting Looked After Learners
Supporting Looked After and Previously Looked After Learners - Tailored Approaches for Success
Defining Areas of Need
Understanding How to Support
Gain a Toolbox of Practical Strategies and Approaches
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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Early Years Support Group 2024-25
To help share and promote good practice, SWALSS offers a remote support network for Early Years leadership in special provision. Facilitated by Sarah Moseley educational consultant and ex-special school headteacher, places are now available to join the group for next academic year.
There are 3 sessions delivered via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Wednesday 18 September 2024
Wednesday 26 February 2025
Wednesday 25 June 2025
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Supporting Children with PICA and Polydipsia (1)
Join Lou Duran of Addington School in the first of two online sessions - Lou will introduce PICA and Polydipsia, explore their medical definition and consider how they manifest themselves in our pupils. How can we work with parents and medical professionals to meet the needs of these children and to mitigate their PICA/Polydipsia tendencies?
This first session will be followed up in the Summer Term with a second, in which Lou will discuss identifying the risks that relate to both conditions, keeping children safe and working with both parents and colleagues.
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Safeguarding Network and Support Group 2024-25
The purpose of this group is to provide ongoing training, support and conversation between schools and sector experts. Each session will be a combination of presentation, updates, problem-solving and celebration. Membership of the group is aimed at anyone in a special school who has responsibility for, or a particular interest in, safeguarding e.g. DSL’s, headteachers and other senior leaders, governors, etc.
This important group is led for SWALSS by Antonia Noble a criminal barrister with a specialism in safeguarding. www.antonianoble.com
Dates for the academic year 2024-25
Tuesday 8 October 2024
Tuesday 4 March 2025
Tuesday 20 May 2025
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Using Generative AI for Effective Administration & Differentiation
Following up from our session on leveraging AI for those in special school settings, we will deep dive into 3 tools to support administration and differentiation. These will be practical demonstrations and suggestions for implementation within your school setting for both leaders and educators, as well as ways these tools can support learners and carers.
This session is led by The Ideas Guy - Ben Whitaker
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RSE Network and Support Group 2024-25
SWALSS is delighted that Helen Dunman of the Chailey Heritage Foundation is willing to run our Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) Support Group for member schools. Chailey Heritage is a non-maintained special school for children and young people with complex neuro disabilities and, with over 30 years’ experience, Helen has developed a national reputation for her work to promote good sex education for people with disabilities of all ages.
Three sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Thursday 17 October 2024
Thursday 6 March 2025
Thursday 12 June 2025
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SEMH Network and Support Group 2024-25
Facilitated by educational psychologist and former special school headteacher Ian Hunkin, each session will include both a formal presentation and dedicated time for discussion, support and challenge.
Three sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Tuesday 12 November 2024
Tuesday 11 March 2025
Tuesday 3 June 2025
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Executive Functioning Quick Wins
Practical Tips for Immediate Impact
Defining Areas of Need/Specific Neurodiverse Differences
Understanding How to Identify and Support
Gain a Toolbox of Practical Strategies and Approaches
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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Mathematics Network and Support Group 2024-25
The role of Subject Lead for Mathematics in schools is key to the development and quality assurance of the subject, particularly with Ofsted’s maintained focus on subjects and curriculum. Places are now available for our online support network for Subject Leaders of Mathematics in special schools and special provision in order to share information, best practice and resources.
Meeting three times each year, the group is facilitated by Dr Gill Barratt, headteacher of The Loddon School, and supported by other serving special school Mathematics leads.
Dates for the academic year 2024-25
Wednesday 27 November 2024
Wednesday 19 March 2025
Wednesday 18 June 2025
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Sixth Form Network and Support Group 2024-25
We are pleased to announce 2024-25 dates for our SWALSS Sixth Form Professional Support Group. Places are now available for both current and new members. The group will continue to focus on case studies, curriculum development, sharing of resources/ideas and problem solving.
Facilitated by Judith Shackell from The Shrubberies School, each session will include both a formal presentation and dedicated time for discussion, support and challenge.
Three sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Thursday 21 November 2024
Thursday 20 March 2025
Tuesday 5 June 2025
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Auditory Processing
Supporting Learners with Auditory Processing Difficulties…
Defining Areas of Need/Specific Neurodiverse Differences
Understanding How to Identify and Support
Gain a Toolbox of Practical Strategies and Approaches
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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New to SLD and PMLD 2024
Are you new to teaching children and young people with very significant learning and physical needs? Or perhaps the needs of the children you teach have changed over time?
This course, led by Sadie Trotman and Claire Murphy, will support you to:
Increase your understanding of SLD/PMLD and the implications for learners and their families
Have opportunities to discuss best practice with a range of teachers in the same position as you
Discuss SLD/PMLD teaching, learning, observation and assessment
Five sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Thursday 3 October 2024
Thursday 24 October 2024
Thursday 7 November 2024
Thursday 14 November 2024
Thursday 28 November 2024
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New to SEMH 2024
This course will support you to build upon your current practice and develop the evidence-informed approaches and interventions you need for your pupils with SEMH needs. What is more - good practice for pupils with SEMH needs is good practice for all pupils!
Led by Ian Hunkin
Five sessions via Zoom, 1.30 - 3pm
Wednesday 18th September 2024
Wednesday 2nd October 2024
Wednesday 23rd October 2024
Wednesday 13th November 2024
Wednesday 27th November 2024
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PSD and ODD
Supporting Pathological Demand Avoidance and Oppositional Defiant Disorder in the Classroom…
Defining Areas of Need/Specific Neurodiverse Differences
Understanding How to Identify and Support
Gain a Toolbox of Practical Strategies and Approaches
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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New to Supporting Behaviour 2024
At the heart of this course lies a positive, therapeutic approach to supporting behaviour that clearly emphasises the link between relationships and behaviour. Participants will be offered an introduction to behaviour analysis and share in planning for positive reinforcement and the reduction of risk.
Led by Aisla Maclean-Wood
Five sessions via Zoom, 10.00 - 11.30am
Wednesday 18th September 2024
Wednesday 25th September 2024
Wednesday 9th October 2024
Wednesday 16th October 2024
Wednesday 13th November 2024
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Developing Writing Skills
Developing writing for all learners, requires a holistic approach that encompasses many aspects of emergent and conventional writing approaches. As well as a deeper understanding of how to remove barriers to learning and provide strategies for all to succeed.
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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New to Leading SEND Staff Teams 2024
Everyone who works in a special school knows that all teachers are leaders and that part of the job is directing the work of other adults. From their first morning in post, special school class teachers are leading what can be a sizeable team of experienced support staff. And for a teacher coming from mainstream, new to the world of SEND, this can be intimidating. How do I get the best out of my new colleagues? How should I deploy them? How directive should I be?
This course is led by Sally Cregan, Deputy Head at Mill Water School.
Five sessions via Zoom, 1:30 - 3pm
Tuesday 24th September 2024
Tuesday 1st October 2024
Tuesday 15th October 2024
Tuesday 22nd October 2024
Tuesday 5th November 2024
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ASD and Autism
Effective Support for Autistic Learners…
Defining Areas of Need/Specific Neurodiverse Differences
Understanding How to Identify and Support
Gain a Toolbox of Practical Strategies and Approaches
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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Research Club and the Research Bursaries Programme 2024-26
We are delighted to invite you to join the next meeting of our Research in Special Schools Club. Led by Dr Gill Barratt, this session will attempt to address some of the potentials and pitfalls of the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our schools.
The second half of the session will be an introductory discussion around the SWALSS Research Bursaries Programme 2024-26.
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Speech Language and Communication Needs
Strategies for SLCN in the Classroom…
Defining Areas of Need/Specific Neurodiverse Differences
Understanding How to Identify and Support
Gain a Toolbox of Practical Strategies and Approaches
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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Nurturing Sensory Regulation
Discover the role that sensory regulation strategies can play in supporting engagement, attention, behaviour, and well-being, to provide equitable learning opportunities for all.
Understanding Sensory Regulation
Identifying Student Needs
Building a Sensory Toolkit
Impact on Behaviour and Well-Being
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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Leadership and Management in the Special Sector
Leadership Development programme for middle and senior leaders looking to build on their skills and knowledge through a collaborative, rich and reflective course. See flyer for more details.
This course will run from September 2024 to June 2025. There will be an expectation that you attend all of the sessions.
3 face to face days held at Polden Bower Special School
1 day shadowing a colleague in another school
2 day residential (venue to be confirmed)
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Impact of AI in Schools
Led by Kieron White, Founder of Leading AI Ltd, the session aims to spark thoughtful discussion on whether AI is a passing trend or a transformative force in the way educational institutions operate.
The session will introduce various artificial intelligence technologies that are already making an impact in supporting teachers and educational leaders. Engaging demonstrations aim to provide a deeper understanding of the potential applications of AI within schools.
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Supporting Dyslexia in the Classroom and Beyond
Gain valuable insights into how dyslexia fits into the broader spectrum of neurodiversity, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with diverse learning profiles. Explore practical strategies and assistive technologies not only for dyslexia but also for supporting various neurodiverse needs to thrive academically and beyond.
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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Early Career Framework
SWALSS is really excited to announce that from September 2024 we are partnering with the University College London Institute of Education (UCL) and South Central Teaching School Hub (SCTSH) to offer the Early Career Framework (ECF) specifically for Early Career Teachers (ECTs) from special schools. No more mainstream dominated ECF training! Your ECTs can now enjoy support specifically tailored to their special school context, delivered to cohorts containing only special school staff.
Date(s) TBC - See Flyer for more details
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Using Tech to Support Reading for Learners Part 2
The focus is on practical examples of integrating technology tools and UDL principles into the literacy curriculum. Through the strategic use of AI, digital libraries, literacy apps, screeners and personalised interventions, teachers can empower students, creating independent opportunities to access print, leading to meaningful engagement, and understanding.
This session is led by Dr Sarah Moseley
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Encouraging Attendance in the Special School
Delivered by Deirdre Fitzpatrick, educational consultant, this important training session will give the background to why school attendance is considered centrally important to every young person’s wellbeing and life chances. From there, Deirdre will go on to discuss the impact of the pandemic on attendance and the statistics that are fuelling the current concern.
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Mathematics Professional Support Group 2023-24
The role of Subject Lead for Mathematics in schools is key to the development and quality assurance of the subject, particularly with Ofsted’s maintained focus on subjects and curriculum. Places are now available for our online support network for Subject Leaders of Mathematics in special schools and special provision in order to share information, best practice and resources.
Meeting three times each year, the group is facilitated by Dr Gill Barratt, headteacher of The Loddon School, and supported by three serving special school Mathematics leads.
Dates for the academic year 2023-24
Wednesday 11 October 2023
Wednesday 6 March 2024
Wednesday 26 June 2024
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Behaviour Network and Support Group
Supporting children and young people with Behaviour is one of the most important elements of a special school’s work. Facilitated by Aisla Maclean-Wood of Westfield Arts College, Regional Lead for the Dorset Steps Behaviour Support Programme, each session includes a presentation and dedicated time for problem solving and advice. See Flyer for more details.
There are 3 sessions delivered via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Thursday 16 November 2023
Thursday 7 March 2024
Thursday 20 June 2024
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Early Years Support Group 2023-24
To help share and promote good practice, SWALSS offers a remote support network for Early Years leadership in special provision. Facilitated by Sarah Moseley educational consultant and ex-special school headteacher, places are now available to join the group for next academic year.
There are 3 sessions delivered via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Wednesday 4 October 2023
Wednesday 28 February 2024
Wednesday 19 June 2024
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Phonics Network and Support Group 2023-24
Meeting three times each year, sessions provide a mixture of presentations, information and discussion focused on phonics teaching issues of the day.
We are thrilled that the ever popular Dr Sarah Moseley has agreed to facilitate the group for us once again.
Three sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Tuesday 10 October 2023
Tuesday 6 February 2024
Tuesday 18 June 2024
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RSE Support Group 2023-24
SWALSS is delighted that Helen Dunman of the Chailey Heritage Foundation is willing to run our Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) Support Group for member schools. Chailey Heritage is a non-maintained special school for children and young people with complex neuro disabilities and, with over 30 years’ experience, Helen has developed a national reputation for her work to promote good sex education for people with disabilities of all ages.
Three sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Thursday 5 October 2023
Thursday 8 February 2024
Thursday 13 June 2024
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Reading Subject Leadership Group 2023-24
This is a Network and Support Group for Reading Subject Leaders - meeting once a term each academic year - to help share and promote good practice and a deep understanding of the School Inspection Framework’s sharp focus on Reading led by Dr Sarah Mosley.
Three sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Wednesday 27 September 2023
Wednesday 7 February 2024
Wednesday 12 June 2024
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Sixth Form Network and Support Group 2023-24
We are pleased to announce 2023-24 dates for our SWALSS Sixth Form Professional Support Group. Places are now available for both current and new members. The group will continue to focus on case studies, curriculum development, sharing of resources/ideas and problem solving.
Facilitated by Emer Moore and Kelly Chapman of Addington School, each session will include both a formal presentation and dedicated time for discussion, support and challenge.
Three sessions via Zoom, 3.30 - 5pm
Thursday 12 October 2023
Thursday 1 February 2024
Tuesday 11 June 2024
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Harnessing AI in Education
Artificial intelligence (AI) stands as a pivotal tool in fostering inclusive learning environments and is particularly beneficial for special needs students. This session aims to showcase the transformative power of AI in education, offering specialists a comprehensive understanding of how AI technologies can revolutionise teaching and learning for students with diverse needs.
Our session will be delivered by Ben Whitaker (aka ‘The Ideas Guy’).
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Metacognition - Working Memory for Neurodiverse Learners
This training explores metacognition, working memory, and their pivotal roles in supporting neurodiverse learners with SEND and complex needs. We begin by defining working memory and delving into essential insights about memory processes, all while emphasising practical strategies designed to empower educators to effectively support all learners.
Delivered for SWALSS via Zoom by Dr Sarah Moseley, educational consultant and former special school headteacher.
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Nurture Professional Support Group 2023-24
We are delighted to be working in collaboration with The Mulberry Bush School in order to offer a SWALSS Nurture Network and Support Group. Meeting three times each year, our newest support group will provide a termly space for school staff wishing to grow and develop nurturing practices to meet, share best practice, contribute to professional development and provide reflective support to colleagues. Like our other professional support groups, the format of each session will be a blend of presentation and discussion. Delivery will be by Mulberry Bush therapeutic trainers and outreach practitioners.
Dates for the academic year 2023-24
Wednesday 18 October 2023
Wednesday 20 March 2024
Wednesday 22 May 2024
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Safeguarding Professional Support Group 2023-24
The purpose of this group is to provide ongoing training, support and conversation between schools and sector experts. Each session will be a combination of presentation, updates, problem-solving and celebration. Membership of the group is aimed at anyone in a special school who has responsibility for, or a particular interest in, safeguarding e.g. DSL’s, headteachers and other senior leaders, governors, etc.
This important new group is led for SWALSS by Antonia Noble a criminal barrister with a specialism in safeguarding. www.antonianoble.com
Dates for the academic year 2023-24
Tuesday 3 October 2023
Tuesday 27 February 2024
Tuesday 21 May 2024
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