Hello from the Senior Lead for the SEND & AP Change programme in Shropshire

03/05/2024

PACC is currently meeting regularly with Julie Johnson, the SEND & AP Change Programme Lead in Shropshire and we asked her to introduce herself, her work and how the Shropshire SEND community can inform and influence this important process.

I am thrilled to introduce myself as the Senior Lead for the SEND and Alternative Provision (AP) Change Programme for Shropshire. Since January 2024, I have been dedicated to fostering positive change and enhancing educational experiences for our children.

My Journey So Far

My professional journey has been rich and diverse. I have served as a SENDCO (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator) within mainstream educational settings, a Senior Leader overseeing SEND, Alternative Provision, and Safeguarding across a trust’s schools, and most recently, as the Headteacher of a secondary school right here in Shropshire.

The SEND and AP Change Programme

We work in partnership with our neighbouring areas—Telford and Wrekin, Herefordshire, and Worcestershire (known as a cluster) to deliver our local SEND and AP Change programme. This programme is committed to addressing key reform areas, ensuring that every child receives the support they need to thrive.

In Shropshire we have focussed on the following areas since January 2024:

• Local Area Inclusion Plans (LAIP): Our Local Area Inclusion Plan is currently in development and will be finalised by May 2024. This plan aims to identify needs, provide early intervention, and address areas for development for SEND.
• EHCP Standardisation: We are embarking on a trial of new EHCP templates, involving 80 families. Their feedback will be invaluable as we refine and improve our plans. We appreciate both positive and constructive input, which will be shared with the Department for Education.
• Early Language Support for Every Child (ELSEC): We have been enhancing the use of Talk Boost and providing additional universal support to selected mainstream primary schools and early years settings.
• Advisory Tailored Lists: We will be reviewing and updating information related to schools and settings included in the Local Offer. As part of this focus, we will be ensuring that that families have their voice heard and have opportunities to feedback.

Your Voice Matters

We are committed to engaging with our SEND community to ensure that all services they receive, reflects the voices of children and young people with SEND and their families.

Over the next 17 months, I will be collaborating closely with PACC (Parent Carer Council) to ensure true co-production. We value your insights and perspectives. With co production and close partnership working, together we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all our children.

Upcoming Conference

In May 2024, I will be attending the PACC Conference, where I’ll provide an update on our change programme. This conference also presents an excellent opportunity for me to connect with many of you and engage in meaningful conversations.

Stay tuned for more updates. Thank you for being an essential part of our journey toward positive change.

Julie Johnson Senior Lead, SEND and Alternative Provision Change Programme Shropshire

If you have any enquiries about Shropshire’s SEND and AP Change Programme, please email at julie.johnson@shropshire.gov.uk