How Learning Can Come To Life Through Horses with Fay Atkins, Suzi Barnett & students
Release Date: 08/07/2025
Supporting ND Learners in Secondary School Settings and Further Education with Susana Gonzalez
The SENDcast
In today’s episode, Dale is joined by Susana Gonzalez, the director and founder of ND Bright Brains, who brings over 20 years of experience in education. They discuss supporting neurodivergent learners in secondary schools and further education. Neurodivergent students often face unique challenges in environments that aren't designed to meet their needs. As awareness of neurodiversity grows, it's crucial for educational settings to shift from compliance-based models to a more student-centred approach that embraces inclusion. Susana emphasises the importance of neurodiversity training,...
info_outline
Cracking the Code – Early Print Concepts and Literacy Readiness with Dr Sarah Moseley & Ginny Bootman
The SENDcast
The third in a four-part series on literacy success, Dr Sarah Moseley and Ginny Bootman join Dale to discuss ‘Cracking the Code – Early Print Concepts and Literacy Readiness’. This discussion focuses on looking at books, texts or symbols in print and taking meaning from them. During the podcast they discuss: The use of symbols and why you need to keep it simple. The significance of early print concepts and how they lay the foundation for literacy. Practical tips for integrating print into everyday learning. Building confidence with print. “If we don't put into the early years a joy...
info_outline
Where Safeguarding and SEND Meet with Sara Alston
The SENDcast
Neglect, abuse and exploitation are challenging subjects, however safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. When it comes to individuals with SEND, things can get complicated. From communication barriers and misunderstood behaviours to gaps in training and confidence, schools can struggle to get it right. In this episode, Dale discusses the complexities of safeguarding in relation to children with SEND with Sara Alston, SEND and Safeguarding consultant and trainer. As Sara says, “It's about knowing the child and being willing to think the unthinkable.” Their discussion covers: ...
info_outline
Autism: The Quiet Ones with Joanna Grace
The SENDcast
We often think of the disruptive autistic child - the one whose behaviour draws attention and prompts others to suggest stricter discipline. This representation, sometimes referred to as the "boys' presentation of autism", overshadows the many individuals who do not visibly express their struggles. Dr Joanna Grace, sensory engagement and inclusion specialist, joins Dale to discuss ‘Autism: The Quiet Ones’. Jo shares insights on the often-overlooked experiences of autistic individuals who may not display disruptive behaviours. Many autistic people experience challenges without revealing...
info_outline
How Learning Can Come To Life Through Horses with Fay Atkins, Suzi Barnett & students
The SENDcast
I'm excited to share today’s podcast, which holds a special place in my heart. Back in primary school, I had the incredible opportunity to ride and learn about horses at the Fortune Centre in the New Forest, igniting a lifelong passion! Nearly 50 years ago, Fortune College was established, and since then, horses have played a vital role in teaching SEND students essential skills - from mathematics and English to independence and life skills. The college specialises in residential education programs for young people aged 16 to 25, integrating horses into their unique learning approach. I was...
info_outline
Better Oracy Through Building Speech and Language Skills in Schools with Yin Collighan & Louise Emerson
The SENDcast
Oracy is increasingly taking centre stage in national discussions, and in today’s episode, Dale is joined by Yin Collighan and Louise Emerson, both experienced Speech and Language Therapists. Together, they delve into the significance of oracy in schools and how enhancing speech and language skills can foster a more effective learning environment. As conversations about a talking curriculum gain momentum, this discussion is essential for teachers, offering insights on how to support all students, including those with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN) and neurodiverse learners....
info_outline
Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging with Dr Susie Nyman
The SENDcast
We are delighted to welcome back Dr Susie Nyman to the SENDcast following her recent visit to Buckingham Palace! In this episode, Susie joins Dale in the studio along with some other special guests……Percy Pig and an array of puppets! In this lively discussion on ‘Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging’ (EDIB), Susie highlights that all students require the teachers to apply EDIB in every lesson. She believes this approach fosters a learning environment where all students feel valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. Susie bases her discussion on her...
info_outline
Parenting a Neurodivergent Child with Kate Steer
The SENDcast
Parenting is one of the most challenging yet rewarding journeys we can embark on. As a parent of a 10-year-old daughter and a 7-year-old son, I’m navigating this rollercoaster and learning along the way. For neurodivergent parents, there’s often the added worry of balancing the past, present, and future. Appointments, meeting our child's needs, and information overwhelm can feel like a heavy weight to carry. In our latest episode, Dale speaks with Kate Steer, a neurodivergent family coach and educational consultant. Kate shares her valuable insights on parenting neurodivergent children,...
info_outline
The Role of Technology and How To Use It Effectively Within The Classroom with Stephanie Smith
The SENDcast
The world outside of education is filled with technology, and if we shield children from it, we risk disadvantaging them when they transition into adulthood. It’s essential that we prepare them for the realities of the modern world. In our latest episode, Stephanie Smith, Head of School at the Cavendish School, joins Dale to explore ‘The role of technology and how to use it effectively within the classroom’. Stephanie shares insights into the innovative technologies implemented at her school, including VR/AR sandboxes, robots, and email systems that have been integrated with great...
info_outline
Sensory Circuits and Sensory Movement Breaks with Ali Neal
The SENDcast
Neurotypical pupils are usually able to meet their sensory needs during play time, however SEND pupils may face difficulties in motor or social skills. This is where sensory circuits and sensory movement breaks are often needed in the classroom. But how do you effectively incorporate them into busy school days? Ali Neal, an occupational therapist, joins Dale to discuss practical ways to incorporate sensory circuits, helping pupils with their regulation and focus. By harnessing the power of movement, we can improve the lives of many SEN and neurodiverse pupils. Ali takes us through the three...
info_outlineI'm excited to share today’s podcast, which holds a special place in my heart. Back in primary school, I had the incredible opportunity to ride and learn about horses at the Fortune Centre in the New Forest, igniting a lifelong passion!
Nearly 50 years ago, Fortune College was established, and since then, horses have played a vital role in teaching SEND students essential skills - from mathematics and English to independence and life skills. The college specialises in residential education programs for young people aged 16 to 25, integrating horses into their unique learning approach.
I was delighted to invite Fay Atkins, Suzi Barnett, and students Mia and Megan to join us in the studio to tell us all about how learning can come to life through horses.
In this episode, you'll discover why horses are an integral part of their educational provision, how the community fosters confidence in students, and their aspirations for the future.
This engaging discussion emphasises the transformative power of combining education with animal therapy, illustrating how horses can facilitate learning and personal growth in young people.
View all podcasts available or visit our SENDcast sessions shop!
About Fay Atkins
I have a background in Marketing and have volunteered for Fortune College for 8 years on the PR committee. When a permanent PR position came up, I jumped at the opportunity to get more involved because I really believe in the College and what it achieves. I have now been in role for a year.
About Suzi Barnett
My career began as a self-employed horse trainer and riding instructor, running the family business in Devon with a focus on dressage and starting young horses. After relocating to Spain with my family, I taught both English and Spanish before returning to the UK in 2010. Since then, I have worked at Fortune College (FCRT), initially as a Functional Skills Teacher and, from 2012 to 2021, as Final Year Co-ordinator. In that role, I led the planning and delivery of the FCRT curriculum for final year students, working closely with families and external agencies to support successful transitions into post-college provision. Appointed Deputy Principal in 2021, I continue to play a key role in the leadership and development of the college, promoting a holistic and student-centred approach to education for learners with SEN.
About Fortune College
Fortune College, part of the Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy, is a specialist independent college based in the New Forest. We provide a three-year residential Further Education programme for young people aged 16 to 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Our unique curriculum uses the therapeutic care of horses as a powerful tool for teaching transferable life skills, as well as functional English and maths. Students learn through meaningful, practical experiences that promote independence, confidence, and personal growth.
Funded by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA), and local authorities our core programme is supported by charitable fundraising to enrich student life and maintain our exceptional standards of care and education.
Contact Fortune College
www.facebook.com/pages/The-Fortune-Centre-of-Riding-Therapy
https://www.instagram.com/fortunecentreriding/?hl=en
- B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk
- Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast
- Email Dale – [email protected]
- Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe
The SENDcast is powered by B Squared
We have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school.