We are happy to welcome Karen Flanagan as our new Head of SEND!
Karen brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our service. Her leadership will ensure that we continue to support children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as those in Alternative Provision, to achieve the best possible outcomes and thrive.
Karen is committed to working closely with our stakeholders, including families, schools, and partners, to build on our existing successes and drive further improvements.
Karen Flanagan, Head of SEND said:
I am pleased to introduce myself as the new Head of SEND at Haringey Council. My journey in education began as a mature student, which instilled in me a deep passion for inclusion. I have worked in various educational settings, focusing on widening participation and inclusion, from delivering foundation courses to leading Alternative Provision programmes for excluded students. My research has centred on vulnerable groups in terms of exclusions and resettlement for young offenders.
My career has also included roles in several Local Authorities, where I have been involved in commissioning, contract compliance, and monitoring Alternative Provision. Most of my work has been in Special Educational Needs, including implementing the new SEND reforms. Recently, I served in a similar role in Barnet, working closely with families and partners to enhance our offer for children and young people with SEND and those in Alternative Provision.I know that life isn’t easy for our children and young people with SEND, those educated in Alternative Provision, and their families, carers, and guardians. While there are no quick fixes, I believe that working together and making small differences can have a significant impact.
I am excited to take on this leadership role and look forward to working in Haringey. I was impressed by the commitment of all the stakeholders I met during the selection process, especially the young people who were part of the interview process and asked brilliant questions.
Haringey is a strong borough dedicated to supporting children and young people with SEND and those in Alternative Provision through authentic coproduction and partnerships including Haringey SEND Power and Elevated Youth.
I look forward to meeting you, whether online or in person.
