By Louise Barrell, Lead SEND Adviser
Working in partnership to help learners with SEND to flourish and to achieve the best possible outcomes, while preparing them effectively for adulthood, has been enshrined in the SEND code of practice for over ten years. This principle has never been more important to HFL Education as we work together with the local authority and schools to navigate the challenges facing the SEND system and search for solutions.
Did you know that “collaboration” is one of HFL Education’s core values? We believe that working with each other, with our customers, and with other partners delivers greater impact; we learn from and with each other to overcome challenges.
This is why HFL Education is delighted to be working in partnership with colleagues across the local area through our new commission from Hertfordshire County Council. The aim is to support all mainstream schools to provide high-quality inclusive provision for all learners by strengthening the rollout of Ordinarily Available Provision guidance and providing an equitable core SEND training programme.
From autumn 2025, all Hertfordshire schools will have access to a fully funded SEND training offer, including:
SENCO induction – a programme designed and coordinated by HFL Education and delivered in collaboration with DSPL areas and Hertfordshire’s SEND Academy. Offering three points of entry, the training will support every SENCO who is:
- New to role and at the start of their journey
- New to Hertfordshire and bringing previous experience
- New to a DSPL area with previous experience and knowledge of Hertfordshire systems
For those without the mandatory qualification, a pathway through to the NPQ for SENCOs will be delivered by HFL Education through the Foundation for Educational Leadership.
SEND briefings – delivered in partnership with DSPL areas, providing a carefully curated digest of national news and local developments, alongside a roundup of useful resources. These termly sessions ensure school leaders are prepared for any new developments and have an opportunity to begin to consider implications for their own school. Highlighting key issues and provide practical support, a SEND briefing supports SENCOs to fulfil their leadership and management responsibilities.
In addition, we will be working with mainstream schools throughout 2025–26, as Hertfordshire’s Ordinarily Available Provision guidance is rolled out through an extended programme of training and in-school support.
If you’re interested in finding out more, look out for our letter to Herts headteachers, or click on the links below to join our summer SEND briefing, sign up for the SEND newsletter or contact us by email.
We’re focused on providing consistent high-quality inclusive provision across our local area and beyond, ensuring the guidance is well understood by all staff. This commission provides a wonderful opportunity for us to work together, learn from each other, share best practice, and ultimately strengthen the quality of SEND provision in Hertfordshire.
If you are a school, setting or trust outside of Hertfordshire and would like to discuss your SEND requirements, please do get in touch.
Sign up for the SEND newsletter
Email us at hfl.send@hfleducation.org
