A recent Evidence for Learning (EfL) LearningShared Regional Conference brought together school leaders, teachers, and education professionals from across the country to explore some of the most pressing questions in specialist education today. This was more than just a day of professional development — it was a space for honest reflection, connection, and the sharing of innovative practice.
Evidencing ambition in a complex landscape
Throughout the day, powerful insights emerged as attendees discussed the challenges they face, particularly around curriculum implementation, accountability, and staff wellbeing. One key question that resonated was: “How can we be ambitious, and evidencing being ambitious for our learners?” Many leaders and teachers noted the constant juggling act required in today’s educational landscape.
“I’m always balancing. Funding. Accountability. Government changes. We have so much to navigate.”
Others highlighted the ongoing challenges in staff recruitment and retention within SEND, with one participant emphasising the ongoing crisis:
“Mass teacher shortage and teachers leaving the profession.”
This concern was further echoed by another leader who stated:
“My staff are struggling. 78% of all teaching staff are feeling stressed.”
The overarching question wasn’t whether schools can be ambitious for SEND learners, but rather how they can be — and how they can prove it.
Building connection and community
Another strong thread was the power of professional community. In a landscape where educators can often feel isolated, events like this provided a vital space for connection. Many attendees talked about the value of stepping outside their own settings to hear real stories, share strategies, and find solidarity in shared challenges.
This community-first approach — prioritising authentic conversation over formal presentations — was noted by several participants as key to both their professional growth and the practical development of their teams.
“EfL and LearningShared events help us strive to develop and become inventive and creative teachers.”
Reflection, implementation and real-world impact
While inspection remains a key driver for many schools, the conference reaffirmed the importance of reflection and implementation as ongoing processes. Leaders discussed the time and support required to introduce change in a sustainable way — especially when trying to rethink traditional models of success. One school shared how using EfL had benefitted them during a recent Ofsted visit:
“EfL allowed us to show the impact and be live in the moment during an Ofsted inspection. It made a huge difference and we were graded Outstanding because it contributed to how we could show and evidence that holistic development.”
Instead of relying solely on academic data, the discussions centred around broader definitions of progress: communication, independence, confidence, and future preparedness. One recurring theme was the desire to create education that genuinely prepares young people for life — not just exams.
Rethinking success
A powerful thread running through the sessions was the question: What does ambition look like for our learners? Rather than falling back on traditional metrics, attendees talked about broader, more meaningful outcomes — from wellbeing and independence to readiness for life beyond school. One leader summed it up well:
“We want every young person to have the chance to live a life that feels good and means something to them.”
There was a strong sense that success should feel personal and lived — not just measured. Another attendee reflected:
“We can actually follow each learner’s journey — and really see those ‘wow’ moments when they happen.”
For many, ambition meant building supportive, flexible pathways that extend beyond the school gates, preparing learners for a world that values their individuality and strengths.
“It’s about building pathways that go well beyond the school gates.”
And, finally, the aim is to ensure that children are ready, not just for exams, but for the world they’re stepping into.
Closing reflections
The LearningShared SEND Regional Conference was more than just professional development; it was a chance to build a strong community among educators. By bringing teachers and leaders together, it encouraged the exchange of ideas and best practices, strengthening the network that drives growth and innovation in schools. In a time when educators often feel isolated, events like this are key to creating connection and shared purpose.
Interested in joining the community of educators and leaders at an Evidence for Learning event?
