Getting Your Voice Heard as a SENCO with Ginny Bootman
The SENCO role is unique and crucial, as SENCOs champion the needs of students who require additional support. However, other priorities in schools often mean that SENCOs themselves don't receive the support they need to be effective. To better champion these students, the SENCO's voice needs to be heard. But how do you, as a SENCO, ensure your voice is heard?
In this week's podcast, Dale is joined by Ginny Bootman, a SENCO working across 4 schools. Ginny brings a wealth of experience and insight to discuss ‘Getting your voice heard as a SENCO’.
Ginny points out that it could be as simple as getting a ‘yum yum’! Ginny explains that the key is to invest time in building relationships and having meaningful conversations. By breaking down barriers and ensuring everyone understands each other's perspectives, SENCOs can position themselves as valuable partners in supporting diverse learners.
“I think when we're talking about getting our voice heard, actually it's about getting our voice heard with the most important people - the children”.
Ginny Bootman
By being heard and having their expertise recognised, SENCOs can drive better outcomes for students, reduce disruption, and foster stronger relationships with parents. Listen to the podcast to discover Ginny's strategies for getting your voice heard.
About Ginny Bootman
I have been a teacher longer than I haven't, as a Headteacher, Senior Manager and Class Teacher and now as a SENCO of 4 Primary schools in Northamptonshire. My passion lies within all things concerned with empathy and the role which empathy plays in ensuring that all of those in school settings feel valued and listened to. I am an Associate of Undiscovered Country a team who help individuals manage change.
Contact Ginny
http://www.ginnybootman.com
ginnybootman10@gmail.com
https://x.com/sencogirl
Useful Links
A few months ago, Ginny released a new book 'Being a SENDCO: 113 tips for building relationships, saving time and changing lives'. It is an informative guide that identifies simple, tried and tested ways to build and cement strong relationships between all those who work with children with additional needs, whether they are teachers, parents, carers or outside agencies.
https://www.crownhouse.co.uk/independent-thinking-on-being-a-sendco
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