In this issue:
Update on the Area SEND Monitoring Inspection
On Monday 6 October we received the call from Ofsted for our SEND Local Area Partnership Monitoring Inspection. The inspection will take place over three weeks. This is not the same as a full inspection - the purpose of the Monitoring Inspection is to assess the extent to which the local area partnership is taking effective action to address the Areas for Priority Action set out in the inspection report. After the monitoring inspection, we'll be notified of the inspectors' judgement (which will either be 'effective action' or 'ineffective action'). We'll keep you informed of the process and of the judgement we receive, through SEND news, and on the Local Offer.
Find out more about Area SEND Monitoring Inspections
Hear our Expert by Experience talk about Hidden Disabilities in the latest guest blog (all ages)
In our latest guest blog post, our Expert by Experience, Freddie Botha, talks about his hidden disabilities and how he is using his lived experience to encourage other young people in Hertfordshire to have their voices heard, during the SEND Takeover 2025.
Guest blog: The disabilities you don't see, but we live with everyday
Half-term Cycle Training for Children with SEND in Hertfordshire (all ages)
This half term holiday, Hertfordshire Disability Sports Foundation (HDSF) is offering low-cost Cycle Training Sessions designed specifically for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Delivered by
Bikeability-trained instructors, these sessions provide a safe, caring, and confidence-boosting environment where every child can thrive.
Whether your child is just starting out or ready to progress to on-road cycling, our tailored sessions support all abilities—from learn-to-ride to advanced skills. We focus on building confidence, independence, and joy through cycling, using adaptive techniques and a nurturing approach.
Sessions are available at various accessible locations across Hertfordshire, making it easy for families to join in. Our instructors are experienced in working with children with SEND and are passionate about creating a positive, inclusive experience for every rider.
Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. Give your child the opportunity to develop lifelong cycling skills, make new friends, and enjoy the freedom of riding in a supportive setting.
To find out more or book a session, visit HDSF’s website
Increasing understanding of neurodiversity in fostering
Earlier this month, our Expert by Experience, CJ Ezeife, attended a coffee morning for foster carers in Hertfordshire. In a pioneering reverse-mentoring project he was asked to support Miranda Gittos, Director of Specialist Services and Commissioning, and together they talked about caring for children with neurodiversity, sharing practical advice on creating inclusive environments and using effective communication strategies.
CJ shared his experiences and insights in a presentation he had prepared. His unique perspective as a young person with lived experience helps foster carers to understand and meet the unique needs of neurodiverse
children they are supporting. There was lots of discussion in the room and a lot of food for thought.
"The presentation was brilliant and our foster carers really appreciated the information you shared with them. It really generated a lot of really good discussion in the room and am sure will help going forwards with the care of the children." - Lynn Knowles, Head of Fostering and Adoption
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) Day - #You can't see DLD
Friday 17 October is #DLDDay - all about raising awareness of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and how it impacts those who live with it. DLD is a difficulty with understanding and using words and sentences.
The creator of this year's theme - You can't see DLD - is Siouxsie, a brilliant young artist from Hertfordshire. Because you can't see DLD, so many people's needs are missed. They go through life struggling, never knowing that there is a reason why things are so hard for them.
This video helps to explain what it feels like for a school child with DLD. You can find more information on DLD on the RADLD website.
Deadline extended for the HCT Wall Art Competition (all ages)
HCT NHS Charity are extending the submission deadline for the HCT Wall Art Competition! Due to the incredible interest and amazing creativity they've seen so far, you now have more time to perfect and submit your designs.
Draw it, Paint it, Design it, Sketch it !
No matter your style, this is your chance to leave your mark on a lasting piece of community art while helping raise vital funds for patient care and support services.
The new closing date is Friday, 31st October 2025.
Don’t miss the chance to showcase your artistic vision and make your mark in the community.
Visit our website for more information on how to enter
Events
View all activities and courses
Half term activities at Hudnall Park (ages 13-19 with SEND)
Monday 27, Tuesday 28, Wednesday 19 October, various times, Hudnall Park Berkhamsted
During the October 2025 half term holidays we are offering free adventurous outdoor activities to young people aged 13-19 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), including those with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.
SEND Chat and Play, Welwyn (ages 0-5)
Monday 20 October, 10am, Creswick Family Centre
Our friendly SEND Champions will be there to discuss any concerns or issues you may have, find information about other local support groups and provide a friendly ear.
Rush - adaptive judo for children and young people with learning difficulties/ disabilities
Tuesdays 6.15- 7pm (ages 8-16) and 7.15-8pm (ages 16+), Ashlyns School Berkhamsted
This class is dedicated to teaching judo to children with learning difficulties / disabilities. At Rush judo we endeavour to accommodate any ability in any of our classes.
Skateboarding for neurodivergent children (ages 9+)
Friday 24 October, 5.30pm, St Albans
A skateboard session with qualified instructors for neurodivergent young people age 9+ and their siblings.