I feel somewhat honoured to have received a book in the post from Bloomsbury publishers. As we all know when Bloomsbury publish an educational book it’s well worth a read. This particular book is authored by one of the leading names in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities(SEND), Kenny Wheeler. It is on a subject very close to my heart and concerns children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

Right from the start the author encourages new and experienced SENCos to start with a vision that they would like the whole team to believe in and strive to achieve. Good advice! He talks of purposeful leadership with the intent of effecting change in order to give the team direction. The writer tells us that as the leader people will follow you if you show passion, determination and commitment to improving things.

Each chapter is based on an important aspect of getting to know all about SEND in your school. There are chapters on Graduated Approach, Data and Information, Training and Services and much more. What makes the book unique is that some topics are covered that have been neglected in other publications regarding SEND. It is suitable for a brand new SENCO and will help you understand the tasks ahead that will make your department successful for the students. Equally it is an aide memoire for more experienced leaders of SEND.

Throughout the book questions are asked in the form of prompts to help the reader to really think about their vision and what they want to achieve. These questions come in the form of reflection time where the reader is encouraged to give extensive thoughts on the topics. This is useful as there is so much to learn in the world of SEND.

For me one of the most interesting chapters concerns the SENCo as a consumer. I don’t want to spoil the plot by giving away Mr Wheeler’s views on this but this chapter is a good read. Similarly, chapter 9, the role of the TA is also an illuminating read. I have my own views on this and I was extremely interested to read in depth the thoughts of a fellow professional. The reflection time following this chapter is especially useful for helping to gather your thoughts.

I could continue extolling the virtues of this book but I will leave it there. I will simply add that if you are a new or experienced SENCo or simply looking to increase your knowledge of SEND I commend this book to you.

Thank you for reading