Lisa Henshall’s Post

Here's my 2024 LinkedIn Rewind, by Coauthor.studio: 2024 reminded me that authentic inclusion isn't a bolt-on - it's the golden thread that runs through every aspect of school life where everyone belongs and no one feels judged. This year, as both SEND Strategic Lead at St Bart's and parent of a child with autism, I've seen how transformative it can be when we shift from asking "won't?" to "can't?" - when we truly believe that children do well if they can, and that connection comes before correction. Some moments that made my heart sing: • Watching our first SEND & Inclusion conference bring together over 200 educators sharing practical ways to make inclusion real • Building trust-wide networks focused on behavior as communication, mental health support, and creating safe spaces • Being part of the round table discussion at the House of Lords about making technology work for all learners • Being nominated for the CST Policy Group (proof that lived experience matters!) • Most importantly - seeing more children feel truly seen and supported Three posts that captured what matters most: "The Finnish education system takes inclusion seriously. In fact, the term 'special needs' doesn't even appear in their legislation because inclusion is the goal." On reimagining what's possible when inclusion is foundational. https://lnkd.in/egvMiBfp "There are things we can change in mainstream with a little imagination, some flexibility and lots of acceptance" After visiting a special school and seeing how simple, cost-free changes make profound differences. https://lnkd.in/ez3NHZyX "We seem to have lost the art of connection, the aim of the journey of joy, creativity and exploration" On creating space for meaningful relationships in our rushed education system. https://lnkd.in/eSuKNhSS This year has been especially poignant. When my daughter said "I love 'being' a TA, I feel welcomed, valued, useful... I feel I BELONG" - it crystallized everything we're working towards. Every child deserves that sense of belonging. Looking ahead: 2025 will be about turning more research into reality, helping schools create environments where everyone feels safe enough to learn and supported enough to succeed. Because when we get it right for our most vulnerable children, we get it right for everyone. To every teacher, leader and parent working to make education truly inclusive - thank you for being part of this journey. Together we're showing that with imagination, flexibility and acceptance, we can create schools where everyone belongs. Remember: children do well if they can. Our job is to figure out why they can't and help them find their way. Human Nature + Neuroscience = Hope ✨ -- Get your 2024 LinkedIn Rewind at https://lnkd.in/ejSmJkp6