Ep. 16 - More S.E.N.D Places Won’t Fix the System

In this episode of Between Two Psychs, we explore a key question emerging from the S.E.N.D White Paper:

Is creating more S.E.N.D places enough, or are we overlooking the workforce needed to support them?

While significant funding has been announced to expand provision, we reflect on whether enough attention is being given to developing the professionals who make inclusion work in practice.

Schools may gain more places, but without confident and supported staff, the pressure on the system could simply increase.

A central theme in our conversation is capacity versus demand.

We discuss the difference between sufficiency planning and workforce development and why focusing only on infrastructure risks missing the bigger picture.

Inclusion is not just about creating space in the system it depends on skilled teachers, strong leadership, and collaborative professional support.

We also explore how the role of educational psychologists may evolve.

Rather than relying solely on traditional assessment models, we highlight the value of consultative approaches that help teachers understand the child’s perspective and build solutions together.

This kind of work focuses on empowerment, helping school staff develop confidence and insight in their everyday practice.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The difference between creating S.E.N.D places and
  developing the workforce

• Why capacity in the system matters as much as provision

• The role of consultation in empowering teachers

• Pressures facing schools and leadership teams

• Why inclusion requires whole-system thinking

Why This Episode Matters

The S.E.N.D system is at a turning point.

The direction of reform suggests a move toward greater inclusion and belonging in schools, but the success of that vision will depend on how well professionals are supported to deliver it.

Ultimately, meaningful reform is not just about expanding provision it’s about strengthening the people and systems that support children every day.

Connect with Mike Lane

Website: ridgewaypsychology.co.uk
LinkedIn: Michael Lane

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