In this episode of Between Two Psychs, we respond to the newly published SEND White Paper and ask a question we don’t think is being asked clearly enough:

If supervision isn’t part of the reform, are we simply increasing pressure on schools without increasing support?

We explore the emphasis on inclusion, the proposed “expert at hand” approach, and the acknowledgement that many teachers do not feel confident supporting pupils with S.E.ND. Drawing on our combined experience and Gillian’s research into emotional wellbeing and teacher retention we reflect on what this reform could mean in practice.

In This Episode, We Discuss

• Whether supervision is the missing ingredient in meaningful SEND reform
• The emotional load teachers carry daily and how reform could intensify that pressure
• Why training alone rarely leads to sustained practice change
• What psychological safety actually looks like for teachers and TAs
• How relationships drive inclusion before behaviour systems or attainment measures
• The risk of inclusion bases becoming seclusion spaces without relational work
• The importance of empowerment, consultation and clarity of role across a school system

Why This Episode Matters

We all recognise that the S.E.N.D system is under strain. Reform is needed. But reform without clarity, containment, and relational safety risks repeating familiar patterns under new language.

I believe that if we want confident teachers, we must create spaces where they feel safe to reflect, question, and grow. Supporting children with S.E.N.D starts with supporting the adults around them.

This episode offers a grounded reflection hopeful where there is potential, cautious where experience tells us to pause and focused on what we can do now to strengthen schools from within.

Read the full S.E.N.D white paper here>> Supervision in Education Quality Standards Framework pdf

Connect with Gillian Airey Goodwin (Guest)

LinkedIn: gillian-airey-goodwin

Instagram: @gillianaireygoodwin

Connect with Mike Lane

Website: ridgewaypsychology.co.uk

LinkedIn: michael-lane

Connect with Me

Instagram: @dradammcartney

Website: dradammccartney.com

YouTube: @Dr.AdamMcCartney⁠