Special event spotlights Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

The SEND Awards returned this July for its third annual event.

The event has become a hallmark date in the year for those with SEND, their families and the professionals that are proud to support them.

The event opened with New Waltham Primary Academy’s Sing and Sign Choir. It also featured an art exhibition with submissions from The Orchard School, Cambridge Park Special School, Humberston Park Special School, Scartho Junior Primary Academy, William Barcroft Junior School, and Middlethorpe Primary Academy.

Talented artists of all ages brought to life our iconic landmarks, beautiful landscapes and symbolic representations of our maritime heritage and life with family and friends.

This art was also used to illustrate three new SEND Alternative Provision strategies that were launched at the ceremony.

Community Award Presenter PC David Cave

Feedback from guests was overwhelmingly positive. One guest said: “There was a great atmosphere in the room and it was good to see people of all age groups attending.”

Another said: “I appreciate the amount of planning that went into the event (behind the scenes), [I was] honoured by being asked to present the award to really worthy winners but most of all listening to all the inspirational stories behind the winners is truly heart-warming. Proving that there are no barriers that can stop people from being themselves and having an impact on others.”

Councillor Philip Jackson, Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, attended the SEND Awards. He said: “There’s something really special about seeing children and young people, families and friends, and professionals from services and educational settings come together to support one another.

“There are so many amazing achievements in the world of SEND so this occasion gives everyone a chance to focus on what’s positive.”

The Worshipful The Mayor of the Borough of North East Lincolnshire Steve Beasant and winner of the Sports award Rio Jacombe

Jennifer Steel, Service Director of Education & Inclusion at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “The Award ceremony continues to grow year on year. This year we had more nominations than ever totalling 325 from teachers, students, families, activity providers, and mentors.

“It’s uplifting to see how many people want to recognise the achievements of others and shine a spotlight to SEND.”

Anyone can participate in the SEND Awards by submitting nominations when they reopen later this year for the 2025 ceremony.

Nominations from 11 categories are shortlisted and winners are chosen by the SEND Young People’s Advisory Group with a panel of special guests.

Videos and photographs from the night can be found on the SEND Awards page on the SEND Local Offer.

NELC SEND Local Offer | SEND Awards – NELC SEND Local Offer (nelincs.gov.uk)