A Right not a Fight

On behalf of all our students, prospective students and their families.

Yes, we have punched above our weight!

• Legislation• Lobbying• Policy development• Funding reforms • Skills promotion

But…

The climate is really tough

“the (seemingly) impossible task of getting our daughter into a suitable college…we have twice arranged and cancelled visits to an outstanding

specialist college. Both times we were first discouraged and then subsequently warned off attempting to send

our daughter there… We stumbled on specialist colleges almost by accident. The LA seems determined

we should forget them”- Parent

So…why should specialist colleges be part of a….

“mixed economy of provision”?

Because it works

3 parts to getting there

•Be clear about our message

•Build good networks

•Exude confidence

Explain why specialist colleges are important in one sentence

without any hesitation

…deviation or repetition

Key messages

• Improved outcomes and quality of life• Solution not the problem • Empowering support to take control over their lives• “confident and resilient enough to move into adult life”• Not a “level playing field” - people with disabilities are disadvantaged

National centres of expertise are a vital component of the “mixed economy of educational provision”

Key stages – student campaign

• Developing a case for support (Jan – Feb)• Identifying supporters (March – April)• Data survey (March)• Student and parent ambassadors (March – April)• “The Big Difference” – social media campaign (April – June)• Value for Money report and launch (May)• The Directory Mob (June)• “Roar” (June)

So…what can you do?

• Keep doing the day job brilliantly..• Data, data…and a bit more data• Engage your student ambassadors • Link up our parent power• Create a network of supporters• Harness digital power…

“The opposite of networking

is NOT working”- Someone Smart

Who do you know?

Digital power

•Website – outcomes, case studies, campaign links•Social media•To blog or not to blog?

How can Natspec support?

•Digital media training • Templates •PR•Reports•Ongoing guidance / information• Support for parents and families• Support for students

“If you think you can, if you think you can’t

You’re right”

Henry Ford

Focus on outcomesHighlight your strengths

Take calculated risksBe as confident as your students!