The Natspec National Conference returns to the Crowne Plaza in Stratford-upon-Avon on 11 and 12 June 2024. Now established as the go-to event for FE professionals who work with students with EHC plans and / or funded through the high needs system, it offers a wealth of learning and networking opportunities.

Across the two-day programme we will be reflecting on our sector’s greatest asset: the staff who make up the specialist FE workforce. Over the past few years the whole FE sector has faced a recruitment crisis; nowhere has this been felt so sharply as within SEND provision. In order to progress and achieve, our learners require staff with up-to-date expertise in a wide variety of job roles across education, health and social care. It is the staff in our colleges, after all, that make them ‘specialist’.

Through our keynote speeches and breakout sessions, we will be considering how to support and develop staff, what management approaches will help us get the best from staff of all ages and at all levels, and how to provide leadership against a backdrop of financial pressures, SEND system reform and uncertainty about the future. The conference will also include a session entitled ‘Apply your own oxygen mask before helping others’ in which a series of experts will advise college leaders on the importance of looking after their own wellbeing.

The range of topics being covered in our breakout sessions is more diverse than ever. Whether it’s AI, intersectionality, positive behaviour support, Total Communication, forest schools, the menopause-friendly workplace, or meeting local skills needs, there will be something on the menu of interest to you. You will also hear from government officials and sector leaders and have the opportunity to question and challenge them. As always, our student speakers will offer fresh perspectives as they remind the room why the work our sector does really matters. And you’re sure to be wowed by our student performers.

The conference programme leaves plenty of space for you to network with other SEND professionals and to find out about the products and services offered by our exhibitors. We hope you leave with fresh ideas, new connections, energy and inspiration and we look forward to seeing you there.