We are delighted to report that feedback about the Camden Learning SEND Hub this year has been incredibly positive. SENCOs and inclusion leads say that the work of the Hub has had a “direct impact” on their schools and on how they work in a climate of growing need, reduced funding and staffing challenges.
The Camden Learning SEND Hub is a professional network that helps schools learn from each other and develop best practice in classroom provision for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
With the increasing pressures on SEND provision, including a rising complexity of pupil needs, we believe that no school should have to meet these challenges alone. Camden’s education strategy to 2030, Building Back Stronger, set out the ambition for a school system that breaks down the barriers to learning by calling out inequalities, acting to address them, making sure children and young people feel a strong sense of belonging to school and community so that no one is left behind. This is founded on the principle that schools are strongest when they are rooted in their communities and connected to one another.
Led by Kentish Town Primary School and supported by a wide network of primary, nursery and secondary partners, our Hub is there to support Camden’s schools, bringing together a community of leaders to share and reflect, while providing a vital space for strategic thinking and professional development.
“Connecting with other SENDCOs has been incredibly beneficial.”
In the academic year 2024/25, the Hub brought together SEND leaders from 20 Camden schools. Our focus for the year centred on three key priorities, aligning closely with the SEND Code of Practice:
- improving provision for autistic pupils and those with complex needs
- developing inclusive environments and assessment strategies
- strengthening transition and support for pupils moving between phases
A significant part of our work during the year was delivering certified Attention Autism training to all schools within the Hub. This structured intervention has been designed to help autistic pupils develop better attention, engagement and communication skills.
The Hub facilitated an open month of school visits, allowing staff to witness interventions such as sensory circuits and early reading strategies in other settings. We also set up resource sharing via Padlet to enable an exchange of assessment tools, intervention strategies and transition protocols.
The impact across the borough has been significant, with staff feeling more confident in supporting autistic pupils and schools reporting improved pupil regulation, engagement and participation.
One colleague said: “Connecting with other SENDCOs has been incredibly beneficial. These meetings have allowed me to reflect on my own practice and take a more strategic approach.” Another added: “The training has had a direct impact on our school – Attention Autism is now part of our practice.”
Looking ahead, the Hub will continue to strengthen assessment practice, deepen the focus on inclusive curriculum design and enhance transition support. We also plan on celebrating the borough’s achievements through a Camden-wide SEND showcase.
