Chester based, North West Academies Trust (NWAT) welcomed a special guest at its annual trust inset day event on Friday 14 February.

The day brought together 230 educators from 12 primary and senior schools, dedicated to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Held at Rudheath Senior School, the event featured expert-led workshops and a keynote address by musician and actress, Toyah Willcox. 

The event provided an opportunity for teaching staff to enhance their knowledge and strategies for supporting students with SEND.

Toyah Willcox shared her personal experiences of living with dyslexia, which she described as her 'superpower'.

Her session left a lasting impression, as she encouraged educators to embrace neurodiversity and recognise the unique strengths of all learners. 

Toyah Willcox encouraged educators to embrace neurodiversity and recognise the unique strengths of all learners (Image via: NWAT)

In addition to the keynote speech, the day featured a series of SEND-focused workshops covering crucial topics such as Speech Therapy, Pathological Demand Avoidance, Dyslexia, Childhood Anxiety, Makaton and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) Practices.

These sessions were led by a range of specialists, including Dr. Carly Danesh-Jones MBE, who delivered an insightful talk on autism. 

Steve Docking OBE, NWAT CEO, said: "Supporting children with SEND is a key priority for our schools, and this event provided invaluable training and inspiration for our staff.

"Toyah's words were truly uplifting, and the workshops delivered practical strategies that will benefit staff and students across our Trust." 

For further information on NWAT visit here.