Categories:
All Schools

SEND Live 2025

This year, SEND Live 2025 provided work experience opportunities for 13 young people across three SEND schools in Oxfordshire: Kingfisher, Fitzwaryn, and Mabel Prichard.  Aimed at students aged 16–19, the programme offered hands-on experience to help them explore potential career paths and support future career decisions.

The work experiences exposed students to a variety of job roles, helping them build confidence, develop independence, and gain real-life workplace exposure. These opportunities were designed not only to inform career choices but also to empower young people through meaningful participation.

Preparation for Work Experience

Before the event, students took part in several preparation sessions:

  • Applying for Roles: Students completed application and expression of interest forms to apply for the advertised roles.
  • Q&A Sessions: Organisers visited schools to meet students, understand their individual needs, explain the roles, and answer any questions.
  • Event Preparation: Held at County Hall, this included travel training using public transport and participation in carousel activities such as lanyard preparation, laminating, signage creation, attendee list checking, and item counting.
  • Venue Familiarisation: Students visited the event venue to explore the space and become comfortable with the layout ahead of the big day.

Work Experience Roles

Students were placed in a range of roles, including:

  • Catering: Preparing and delivering food and drinks.
  • Event Management: Organising speakers and guests, and resolving issues on the day.
  • Event Preparation: Assembling resources like lanyards and leaflets, and managing attendee lists.
  • IT Support: Setting up equipment, troubleshooting, and checking technical setups.
  • Speaker Assistant: Supporting professional speakers with tasks such as handing out materials, public speaking, and shadowing.

All participants received an Oxfordshire Achievement Award and AQA certification for completing their work experience. Their contributions were vital to the success of the event, and they took great pride in their achievements. Professionals and venue staff praised the students for their professionalism, politeness, and dedication.

Staff Reflections

“I was particularly impressed with Alex who took on the responsibility of speaker assistant. He was very nervous at the start and needed support to introduce speakers. By the third introduction, he was much more confident and very proud of himself.”

“Gavin participated in a wide range of tasks as part of his catering role. He was proactive, followed instructions well, and performed so impressively that he was offered further work experience with the catering team.”

“We loved having our work experience team help us!”

Student Feedback

“It was a very fun experience.” – Mabel Prichard student
“I enjoyed it.” – Mabel Prichard student
“It was good.” – Kingfisher student
“It was fun.” – Kingfisher student

Keynote Speaker: Ben Juggins

This year’s keynote speaker, Ben Juggins, delivered a powerful and emotive speech reflecting on his journey through mainstream and SEND education, post-16 provision, college, internships, and volunteer work. His story highlighted the challenges he faced and the professionals who supported him, resonating deeply with delegates.

Ben’s passion for giving back to his community inspired many. Following his speech, he was invited to speak at a graduation ceremony at Brookes University by an independent specialist day school in Oxford. Dr. Sarah Moseley, a workshop speaker, praised Ben’s speech on social media, calling it “deeply moving.”

Employment Support Worker Reflection

Jade Buck, who has supported students at SEND Live for two years, shared her insights:

“These opportunities are incredibly valuable. Students begin by writing an expression of interest and personal statement. We visit them in school to discuss their needs and the roles they’ve applied for. They help with event prep — making signage, decorations, sorting lanyards — and visit the venue to familiarise themselves.”

Jade primarily supported students in catering roles:

“Julie and her team at the Kassam are amazing. They make the work accessible and achievable, giving clear instructions and demonstrations. Tasks include arranging food, washing up, restocking supplies, and even driving trollies — which the students love. There’s no pressure, and breaks are always allowed.”

All students Jade worked with enjoyed their roles and felt supported throughout.

Looking Ahead to 2026

We are excited to continue offering work experience opportunities at SEND Live 2026. If you are interested in taking part, please contact lydia.martin@oxfordshire.gov.uk.