SEND in the Spotlight

BBC Sounds

Woman’s Hour presenter Nuala McGovern delves into a key aspect of special educational needs and disabilities - or SEND - each week, and brings together families, young people, teachers, experts, and decision-makers. Featuring high-profile parents including Anna Maxwell Martin and Kellie Bright, expect straight talk, sharp insight, and practical advice.

Share your story with us: send@bbc.co.uk

SEND in the Spotlight is a Woman’s Hour podcast. Episodes are published on Mondays on BBC Sounds. If you enjoy listening, why not try the Woman’s Hour Guide to Life which Nuala McGovern also presents.

Note: In Scotland the system is called ASN, Additional Support Needs; In Wales it's ALN, Additional Learning Needs; In Northern Ireland it is known as the SEN register, that is the Special Educational Needs Register.

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14 episodes
Updated March 9

Episodes14

Newest first

March 9 · 38 min
Specialist schools, John Harris
Where do the SEND reforms in England leave specialist schools?
March 2 · 36 min
Health - spotlight on the 'H' in EHCP, Carrie Grant
How children's health needs are met in school, and impact their education
February 24 · 58 min
SEND reforms | A Woman's Hour & SEND in the Spotlight special
We hear from a range of voices on the impact of the government's SEND reforms in England.
February 19 · 22 min
Leaks of SEND reforms BONUS EPISODE
Reaction to leaks suggesting major changes to SEND support
February 16 · 40 min
Supporting cast - TAs, SLTs, Ed Psychs, Kellie Bright
We hear from some of the unsung heroes in the SEND system
February 9 · 37 min
Transport, Kellie Bright, Amanda Hopgood
Why is the transport bill for children with SEND increasing?
February 2 · 34 min
Your questions answered, Carrie and David Grant
We put your SEND queries to an expert panel.
January 26 · 33 min
Attendance and fines with Jayne Lowe, Anna Maxwell Martin, Kellie Bright
How can children with SEND be supported to go to school every day?
January 19 · 43 min
Local authorities, Carrie and David Grant
We look at the role local authorities play in the SEND system.
January 12 · 45 min
Mainstream inclusion with Tom Rees, Kellie Bright and Marsha Martin
Teaching SEND pupils in mainstream schools. What's working and what isn't?
Dec 22, 2025 · 34 min
Christmas tips from the Autism Dads and Katie Ghose
The joys and challenges of the festive season for a child with SEND
Dec 15, 2025 · 37 min
EHCPs - an expert guide, Anna Maxwell Martin
Everything you need to know about getting an EHCP for your child
Dec 8, 2025 · 37 min
Schools Minister, Anna Maxwell Martin, Kellie Bright
School Standards Minister Georgia Gould starts a national conversation on SEND.
Dec 1, 2025 · 3 min
Introducing... Send in the Spotlight
Real stories, bold ideas: Reimagining support for special educational needs