Seeing the Whole Child: Using an Intersectionality Lens in SEND Practice

Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) will relate to multiple, intersecting identities, including ethnicity, gender, disadvantage, language, culture, disability and others. This presentation explores how an intersectionality lens can enable staff to perceive the child beyond single-category SEND labels and to respond to each child's unique strengths and needs. Drawing on theory, research, and practice, the session examines how intersecting identities shape participation, belonging, and access. Participants will be encouraged to critically reflect on their own practice and consider how they can create equitable, inclusive, and strengths-based environments where every child is seen, valued, and supported to thrive