SENDividual

My name is Carolyn Seymour and I am an Independent Education Consultant and SEND Advocate.

About Me:

I worked as a teacher and senior leader in Birmingham primary schools for 26 years.

I was the Headteacher of a large primary school in Sparkhill, Birmingham, for 7 years.

I had to leave my role as a Headteacher to support my own autistic children and fight to get them a suitable education.

I am IPSEA Level 3 SEND Law qualified.

What I Believe:

I am passionate about education and believe that great teachers change lives. I taught for 26 years and championed the needs of all children as a Headteacher, and of my own autistic children as a parent.

Great teachers build genuine, positive relationships with the children they teach. They know the children in their class. They notice when they have a new hair cut, and ask how they got on at Cub camp, or how their new baby brother is sleeping now that he has his own room. They want the best for every child, and have just the right amount of firmness, fun and love to inspire and motivate them to learn and to flourish. 

Great teachers are amazing, but not all teachers are great; and those that are, work in a system built around test scores and league tables, not around children. 

If your child doesn't fit the mould, they may struggle to flourish in school. My job is to work with you to ensure your child has the best chance at getting what they need to access a suitable education. 

I also work with schools who are serious about meeting the needs of neurodivergent children and young people, offering training and advice from my unique perspective. Adaptations and ways of working that support neurodivergent learners usually support neurotypical children too, so everyone can benefit from some relatively simple changes.

What I Do:

I work with parents, young people and schools to get the right support in place so that all children can access suitable education and flourish.

Disclaimer: I am not a solicitor and I cannot give legal advice. I am an educationalist and SEND parent who can give you legal information and practical advice.