Words First – Universal training programme for LSEAT schools

London South East Academies Trust (LSEAT) has rolled out a new Trust‑wide universal SEND therapy training programme, designed to strengthen inclusive practice across all of its mainstream, specialist and alternative provision settings.

Developed in partnership with specialist therapy provider Words First, the offer gives all staff across the Trust access to a bespoke suite of online training modules, embedded within continuing professional development (CPD). The programme is designed to ensure staff are confident, skilled and well equipped to identify SEND early, understand need and respond effectively within everyday teaching and support.

This training is now live, with access available to staff – and is being embedded within schools’ CPD programmes for the 2026/27 academic year.

A universal, evidence‑based approach

The universal therapy training offer aligns closely with government ambitions set out in the Schools White Paper and SEND reforms, which emphasise early identification, strong universal provision and sustained investment in workforce development.

Developed by a multi‑disciplinary team – including speech and language therapists, occupational therapists and educational psychologists – the modules are interactive and grounded in evidence‑based practice. They are designed to be relevant to staff working across a wide range of educational contexts.

Our training offer:

Online universal SEND modules

The programme includes eight universal training modules, developed by Words First in partnership with LSEAT. These focus on building shared understanding and consistent practice across the Trust.

Modules include:

1. An Introduction to Communication & Interaction Needs

Learners will understand core communication skills, recognise signs of need, the importance of early identification, the impact on learning, and practical strategies to adapt language and support children and young people.

1. An Introduction to Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs

Learners will understand how relationships, attachment, trauma and ACEs influence behaviour and wellbeing; recognise common SEMH patterns; view behaviour as communication; apply trauma‑informed strategies; and appreciate the importance of staff wellbeing and reflective practice.

• An Introduction to Cognition and Learning Needs

Learners will understand how cognition underpins learning, recognise learning differences, use strategies to support memory and reduce cognitive load, promote metacognition and self‑regulated learning, and adopt strengths‑based, inclusive approaches.

1. An Introduction to Sensory and Physical Needs

Overview of sensory processing, gross and fine motor skills, motor planning and coordination, visual perception, daily living skills, play and leisure, life skills, and the use of adaptive equipment and seating.

The training is supported by pre‑ and post‑learning activities, enabling schools to demonstrate impact, measure improvement over time and support inspection readiness.

SENCO Masterclasses

These inspiring masterclasses bring together expert insight and practical application to strengthen inclusive practice and improve outcomes for children and young people. They include:

Enabling Children to Thrive through Occupational Therapy

Delivered by the Words First Occupational Therapy Team, this session explores how targeted OT support can unlock potential and build independence.

Engaging Parents of Children and Young People with SEND to Improve Outcomes

Led by the Words First Educational Psychology and Counselling Teams, focusing on meaningful partnerships with families as a driver for positive change.

A SEND‑Informed Approach to Social and Emotional Learning

Aligned to EEF guidance, this masterclass from the Words First Educational Psychology and Speech and Language Therapy Teams bridges evidence‑based practice with real‑world application.

Authentically Capturing Pupil Voice

The Words First Educational Psychology and Speech and Language Therapy Teams explore creative, inclusive ways to ensure children and young people are genuinely heard.

A Collaborative Approach to Therapy for Children and Young People with Complex Needs

Drawing on the combined expertise of Educational Psychology, Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy, this session highlights joined‑up, impactful provision.

Integrating Therapy Advice into Adaptive Teaching Strategies

Delivered by the Words First Educational Psychology, Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy Teams, supporting teachers to translate specialist advice into everyday classroom practice.

Staff across all Trust schools can now access this offer, with the training woven into schools’ CPD programmes for 2026/27. 

We expect this to be genuinely transformative: empowering staff to recognise and respond to need at the earliest possible stage, strengthening practice, and improving outcomes for children while supporting staff confidence and capability.

By building shared understanding and practical expertise, this training will help ensure needs are met promptly, with effective strategies and interventions embedded early as part of the universal offer across all our settings.

Additional support for schools and parents

• SEND planners for SENCOs, alongside a range of digital and printed resources to support school‑level implementation
• SENCO masterclasses, deepening expertise and leadership of SEND provision
• Inclusive environment tools, supporting adjustments at whole‑school level
• Online support sessions for parents, tailored to different settings and focused on priority areas. These include

• Helping Your Child Manage Emotions and Sensory Needs, led by an Occupational Therapist and Play Therapist
• Understanding Neurodiversity: What It Means for You and Your Child, led by an Educational Psychologist and Speech and Language Therapist
• Communicating in Every Way: Tips for Supporting Your Child, led by a Speech and language therapist and occupational therapist.
• Building Independence: Everyday Skills and Preparing for the Future, led by an Occupational Therapist and Educational Psychologist
• Taking Care of Yourself While Supporting Your Child, led by an Occupational Therapist
• Working Together: How Parents, Schools, and Therapists Can Support Your Child

For more information about Words First, visit: Home - Multidisciplinary Services for Schools