Reach Learning Centre
Bespoke consultancy, support, advice and guidance
Meeting the diverse needs of learners within todays schools is one of the most challenging tasks facing education today.
Our vision for children and young people with SEN is the same as what we expect for ALL children: that they reach their own potential, are included fully in their school communities and are well prepared for the transition into adulthood, allowing them to become active citizens in their local community.
Reach for Inclusion offers a bespoke support service to schools, working in partnership with pupils, staff, families and professionals to achieve a culture of inclusion.
Educational excellence for children with SEND requires schools to think smart, be innovative and challenge the norm. We can help you on your path to outstanding practice.
Reach for Inclusion was established in 2018 by Jo Garner, an experienced teacher and leader with 24 years experience in both mainstream and specialist provisions.
Jo has expertise and extensive experience in supporting pupils with SEND in schools.
Starting off a successful teaching career in mainstream education, Jo quickly progressed to SENCO as her passion for SEN was established.
In 2004 Jo moved into specialist provision, since when she has been a teacher, a Department lead and an Assistant Principal for a large generic special school. With expertise in communication, behaviour and Moderate Learning Difficulties, Jo spent 5 years working alongside the Local Authority to place pupils through Shropshire's Specialist Placement Panel.
Since Founding Reach for Inclusion in 2018, Jo has worked with and advised a number of mainstream providers on strategies to support and include pupils with SEN and disabilities in their local community schools.
Jo believes that;
Since high school Siobhan knew that she wanted to work within the SEND sector, seeking volunteering opportunities with young people with SEND to gain experience and knowledge, this confirmed to her that this was the career pathway she wanted to follow. She went on to graduate with a BA QTS specialising in SEND at Liverpool Hope University.
Having gained experience as a teacher at a large all through generic SEND school, Siobhan’s career quickly progressed, she led on the introduction of Extended Schools and Pupil Premium, before moving on to become a Department Lead and Assistant Principal.
With expertise in complex needs and communication, as well as key stage 4 / key stage 5, Siobhan is passionate about Careers Education for ALL and is a qualified Careers Leader (Level 7). She has spent the last 5 years developing her knowledge and expertise, gaining experience within the SEND Further Education Sector to further her knowledge, as continuing professional development is fundamental to Siobhan’s work ethic.
Siobhan is a trainer in Intensive Interaction, and has experience of using this approach to promote communication with children from 3 years right through to young adults. Siobhan has trained many professionals within the education sector in utilising this approach within their practice.
Siobhan believes that;
· ALL young people are entitled to a person-centred approach to education, that is progressive and challenges the young person to reach their full potential, guiding them in to adulthood and promoting their ability to become active citizens within society
· It is our responsibility to advocate for SEND young people, ensuring we challenge the norm and promote innovative ways of working within the SEND sector to work to a better future for all
Tor is a seasoned educator with 14 years of experience specialising in teaching and leading programs for students with special educational needs (SEN). Her expertise includes various methodologies such as Makaton, TACPAC, Sensory Integration, TEACCH, and PECS.
Passionate about fostering inclusive learning environments, Tor advocates for total communication and attention to individual needs.
Outside the classroom, Tor finds solace in nature and enjoys engaging with animals. With a dedication to making a positive impact on education and a love for the outdoors, Tor continues to inspire both students and fellow educators alike.
After completing my degree in English with Theatre Studies in 2010, I went on to qualify as a teacher in 2012 and have worked in SEN settings in a variety of different roles ever since including as a Class Teacher, Behaviour Lead and Curriculum Lead. My specialism is in positive behaviour management and I worked as Behaviour Lead in a large SEN school for a number of years, during which I completed an MA focusing behaviour and exploring the issue of bullying in detail. I have been a Team Teach trainer since 2015; I strongly believe in positive, therapeutic approaches and that behaviour is a form of communication and that unpicking this is key to supporting an individual displaying behaviours which challenge. I love working at Reach because it brings so much variety; every day is different and I get to work with a broad range of young people and professionals in different ways, including delivering training, consultancy in schools, careers advice, working one-to-one with young people and teaching group sessions. I love the relationships I have the privilege to develop throughout my role and really getting to know the young people I work with and what makes them tick!
In my free time, I love spending time outdoors with my husband and two young children. We enjoy going on muddy adventures with our dog Bear, kayaking, camping and exploring historical sites such as castles. We all love the seaside and head for the coast as often as we can! Family time is very important to me and cosy Friday family film or games night is my favourite time of the week. When I’m on my own (which doesn’t happen often these days!), I love nothing more than curling up with a good book in front of the fire and do my best to instil a love of literature in my own children and all of young people I work with. As well as Bear, I also have two cats called Ezzy and Mowgli and three giant African Land Snails called Ruby, Pam and Pip… I live in a zoo!
With over 15 years immersed in Special Educational Needs (SEN) education, I am a seasoned Forest School leader driven by a fervent commitment to outdoor education.
My journey, fortified by a degree in Social Care and Social Policy, alongside a postgraduate certificate in autism spectrum disorder, has equipped me with a holistic understanding of diverse needs.
My approach is both creative and resourceful, reflecting my passion for nurturing individual growth through innovative methods. Beyond the classroom, I find inspiration in photography, capturing nature's beauty and weaving it into my educational endeavours.
Dedicated to empowering through nature's classroom, I strive to ignite curiosity and foster inclusive learning environments.
Hi, my name is Alan. I’m an ultra runner, and a strength and fitness enthusiast. I also coach runners, provide 1:1 strength and conditioning training, as well as classes for groups.
I have a running events company, and am in the process of opening my own gym.
My approach to mentoring young people is that we should all be given a chance to shine. I believe using physical activity and learning good communication skills are paramount in us becoming the best version of ourselves.
Hey there! I'm Becci, a passionate mountain biker and fitness enthusiast who thrives on adrenaline and competition. When I'm not tearing up the trails or in the gym, I'm mentoring SEN students, guiding them to discover their potential and overcome challenges.
With years of experience in both competitive biking and coaching, I bring a unique perspective to my mentoring sessions.
My goal is to inspire and empower students to push their limits, build resilience, and achieve their goals. Let's ride the trails of life together, one pedal stroke at a time!
I have been working in Education since 2019 and am a qualified teacher and assessor in Hairdressing and Beauty.
Alongside my love of education, I also run my own hair and beauty business which was established in 2015.
As a mental health first aider and trainee counsellor I work with students 1:1 and in groups to support them with their needs. I have completed numerous training courses including safeguarding, prevent, attachment and trauma, suicide prevention, mentoring and more.
In my spare time I love cold water swimming and spending time in the garden.'
Our mentor Rich is the founder of a design and manufacturing business. Richard is dedicated to supporting aspiring designers of all ages.
During his sessions, Richard shares his expertise, empowering others to explore their passions with confidence. With a belief in hands-on learning, Richard fosters an environment of creativity, collaboration, and growth.
Outside of work, he loves to play golf and supports Wolverhampton Wanderers, but we won’t hold that against him!
Awaiting
Hi, I'm Grace!
I'm a soon-to-be Zoology student at the University of Sheffield, although I'm currently on a gap year. When I'm not at Reach working as a Learning Support Assistant, you can find me at the yard with my gorgeous loan horse, Loular, who I compete with in a variety of disciplines. I also absolutely love solo travelling - hopefully there will be lots more of this to come in my future! Being in nature is also very important to me, so my volunteer work for charities including Nature's SAFE and Cuan Wildlife Rescue feels like time well spent.
I think the best thing about the Reach for Inclusion family is the diversity within our staff - every member brings something different to the table so there's always someone for each student to relate to. For me, being a younger member of the team gives me a unique perspective and helps me to create meaningful relationships with students.
It's lovely being part of such a welcoming, supportive and engaged team of people who want the best for every student who walks through the doors. Every single person has a story to tell, and Reach is here to listen.
Ella is the youngest member of the Reach Team. She attends Harper Adams University where she is studying Agriculture.
Ella supports us with our Administration and also works with students when she's home from Uni.
Ella has a passion for large animals, and has her own horse at home. She is a keen equestrian in her free time.
She is also a member of the Young Farmers and regularly assists with fundraising events.
Ella works on a large dairy farm at the weekends and is about to embark on a 12 month placement in New Zealand.
Poppy and Paddy are both Cocker spaniels.
Poppy is 6 and Paddy is 11 months old.
They love coming to work at Reach, especially on Dog Agility day! They are always on hand for a cuddle or a walk, and love to be fussed and groomed.
In their free time they love to go on long walks, play with toys and snooze the day away.
Emily works three days a week at our Learning Centre, and also enjoys outreach visits.
She loves to eat lettuce and carrots, but loves nothing more than having a cuddle with the students.
I understand that each student's situation and needs are unique to them. Tell me more about what you're looking for, and I will get back to you soon with some ideas.