Background: Tom, a 14-year-old student in a mainstream secondary school, began exhibiting increasingly disruptive behaviour. His actions ranged from talking back to teachers and refusing to follow instructions to more serious incidents like leaving the classroom without permission and instigating conflicts with peers. These behaviours escalated to a point where the school considered permanent exclusion.

As a parent, ensuring your child receives the support outlined in their Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) is crucial. If you suspect that the school isn’t using the EHCP funds appropriately, there are several steps you can take to address the issue.

In this blog post, we'll demystify the jargon by defining some of the most common acronyms and terms you might encounter, helping you to better understand and navigate the complex landscape of education and social care. From ASD to SEND, join us as we break down the language barriers and provide clarity on these essential terms.

Navigating the special educational needs (SEN) landscape can feel overwhelming for parents and carers. However, having an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) ensures your child receives the tailored support they need. Here’s a breakdown of what an EHCP entitles your child to...

Navigating the world of special educational needs can be challenging, especially when the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) for your child is not being properly implemented. Parents and carers need to be aware of their rights to ensure their child's needs are met. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you can do if an EHCP is not being fulfilled.

In today’s media-saturated world, young people are constantly bombarded with images and messages that can significantly impact their body image. From glossy magazine covers to perfectly curated social media feeds, the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards is ever-present. This has profound implications for their mental health and self-esteem. Here’s a look at how the media warps young people's body image, the effects on mental health, and how we can promote a healthier self-perception.

As parents and guardians, our primary concern is always the well-being of our children. Discovering that your child or young person is self-harming can be incredibly distressing and overwhelming. It's a situation that no one anticipates, yet it's a reality for many families. Here's a guide on what to do if your child or young person is self-harming.

Sleep is often undervalued, yet it is one of the most critical factors in a child's development and overall well-being. From cognitive function to emotional stability, the benefits of a good night's sleep are profound and far-reaching. In this blog post, we'll delve into the importance of sleep in children and teenagers, and explore strategies to promote good sleep hygiene.

Navigating the world of special educational needs (SEN) can be daunting for parents, especially when their child is unable to attend school for various reasons. This is where Section 19 of the Education Act 1996 steps in, providing a crucial safety net for ensuring every child receives the education they deserve, regardless of circumstances.

For young people with autism traits, staying regulated and in control of their emotions can be challenging. This is why clear, concise communication is crucial. When they're in a state of dysregulation, trying to explain things in detail only adds to their overwhelm. They might hear your words, but the meanings get lost in the noise.

In the fast-moving world of alternative education and youth work, it’s easy to get caught up in trends and ideas. But what really sets a programme apart is its authenticity. Young people don’t need another one-size-fits-all experience—they need something unique, tailored, and genuine. And let’s be honest, it takes more than a quick copy-and-paste to make a real difference!

J, an 8-year-old boy in primary school, was struggling with severely dysregulated behaviours. His family life was deeply affected by his parents' substance abuse problems, leading to a chaotic and unstable home environment. Social services were actively involved, but the turmoil at home was visibly impacting J's behaviour and emotional well-being at school.

At Keane Futures, an alternative provision specialising in re-engaging young people and reigniting their passion for learning and self-belief, we frequently encounter behaviours that challenge traditional frameworks. These behaviours have often been labelled as "problems" needing correction. However, a deeper look reveals these aren't simply behavioural issues, but rather sophisticated coping mechanisms developed in response to trauma. By reframing our perspective, we can more effectively support these children and empower their healing journey.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that manifests in diverse ways, yet many children and young people remain undiagnosed, navigating life without the clarity and support that a diagnosis can provide. In this blog post, we'll explore the phenomenon of undiagnosed autism, shedding light on its prevalence, challenges, and the importance of recognition and acceptance.

Nicola Morgan's book "Blame My Brain" offers invaluable insights into the complex world of teenage behaviour, exploring the physiological, neurological, and chemical changes that occur during adolescence. In this blog post, we'll delve into the key points raised by Morgan and examine how these changes impact teenagers' behaviours and emotions.

Parenting is a journey filled with moments of joy, challenges, and growth, especially when it comes to helping children and teenagers navigate their emotions. Emotional regulation is a critical skill that enables young people to manage their feelings effectively, fostering resilience and well-being. In this guide, we'll explore techniques for parents to support emotional regulation in their children and teens, encompassing a range of ages and developmental stages.

In the realm of education, ensuring that every child has access to the support they need to thrive is paramount. For students with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), Education Health Care Plans (EHCPs) play a crucial role in providing tailored support and resources to help them reach their full potential. Let's delve into what EHCPs are, how they work, and their significance in ensuring inclusive education for all.

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, innovative approaches continually emerge to enhance the learning journey for young minds. One such profound avenue is the integration of animal care into educational settings. Beyond traditional academics, nurturing animals can profoundly impact the social, emotional, and mental well-being of young people, fostering empathy, responsibility, and resilience.

In an age where traditional education methods often fall short in engaging students, thematic learning emerges as a powerful approach to rekindle young people's passion for learning. By integrating various subjects around a central theme, this method offers a holistic, engaging, and relevant educational experience. Here’s why thematic learning can transform the educational journey for disengaged students.

The Department for Education (DfE) has recently initiated a consultation aimed at enhancing the protections for children in unregistered alternative provision settings. This move is in response to growing concerns about the safety and quality of education in these environments. The consultation seeks to gather views on proposals to introduce new, light-touch quality assurance frameworks underpinned by national standards.