University of Cumbria and Cumberland Council host conference supporting SEND teachers and professionals on International Day of Education

The conference, held at the university’s Fusehill Street Campus in Carlisle on 23 and 24 January, welcomed more than 80 guests each day from education, health and social care settings in Cumbria.  

The conference provided a unique opportunity for regional professionals working in the area of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) to network, discuss their settings and approaches, and exchange thoughts on best practice. 

Keynote speeches were delivered by nationally renowned speakers, including Wendy Lee, professional director of Lingo Speech; and Amy Forrester, leader of behaviour and pastoral care at Cockermouth School, who is also an alumnus of the university. 

On day two, delegates heard from Maureen McKenna OBE, who has held a wealth of professional education positions, including President of the Association of Directors of Education of Scotland (ADES); and Professor Mel Ainscow, Emeritus Professor at the University of Manchester and former consultant to UNESCO.  

Ten local and national organisations exhibited at the conference, and ten workshops promoting best practice took place across the two days.  

Friday 24 January was International Day of Education, focusing on AI and education, and the SEND conference included workshops ranging from using adaptive technology, navigating ADHD, supporting cared for children with SEND, and lived experience and language that cares. 

Cllr. Elaine Lynch, Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Development for Cumberland Council, said: “It has been a joy to attend the Annual SEND Conference over the past three years. The conference has continued to grow and attract professionals and experts in the SEND field to Cumbria to share their knowledge and good practice, which will now be shared with education settings to benefit children and young people in the area. Cumberland Council are proud to continue to work in partnership with the University of Cumbria to provide this opportunity for our educators in Cumbria to develop their understanding and listen to the latest leading research and learning in SEND.”  

Professor Brian Webster-Henderson OBE, Deputy Vice Chancellor of University of Cumbria, said: “As an educator, I recognise that this conference is a wonderful opportunity for learning, networking, and examining new evidence by many of the dedicated SEND professionals who support the children and families across Cumberland and wider area. At the University of Cumbria, we are very proud of our firm agenda on place and being a university of relevance providing education in and for the communities we serve, inspiring present and future generations and delivering higher-level skills and knowledge to our region.”