The Natspec Parliament meets twice a year online, hosted by five different SEND Colleges across England and Wales. We were delighted to take part in the most recent discussion, highlighting important topics in the SEND community such as the White Paper, public transport and personal reflections.
Our College Student Council shared powerful views and reflections around the discussed topics. Many spoke about the pride they feel in their college and how being part of it has empowered them. Several students shared their aspirations and what college means to them:
- Stevie spoke about how college supports her through therapy programmes and hydrotherapy, improving her wellbeing.
- Laneyle shared her positive work experience at Bentley and her role as a fire marshal.
- Kaitlin spoke about her ambition to become a DJ and her love of music.
- Max proudly shared that, through trying different work experience opportunities at college, he has secured paid employment. He also spoke about fundraising for Seashell and learning to dance for the Strictly Seashell event.
In a discussion about transport, Luke used his communication aid to share that he enjoys using public transport to go shopping. Kaitlin shared her frustrations around limited wheelchair space on buses when accessing the community, which led to a wider discussion around accessibility restrictions.
There were also some very honest and emotional reflections. One student shared her experience of isolation when she was not in the right provision and spent two years at home without an EHCP, which negatively impacted her mental health. She is now thriving in college, feeling supported by staff and peers, and spoke positively about how much she is enjoying life.
Maureen Wilkins, College Teacher, said:
“All of the students contributed to discussions around the White Paper reforms, sharing their views and experiences. I was incredibly proud of how confidently our students spoke in front of such a large audience – they were articulate, brave, and ensured their voices were heard,”
