Experiences of those involved in SEND education

Hart, Kim and Islam, Nargis and Story, Stacey (2025) Experiences of those involved in SEND education. PhD thesis, Lancaster University.

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Abstract

This thesis explores aspects of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) education in relation to some of those involved within it. The first part presents a thematic content analysis which aims to explore parents' perceptions of the educational experiences of their child with SEND. A systematic search was conducted which led to the inclusion of 19 papers. Following the analysis of the papers three overarching themes emerged; (1) Relationships (2) Understanding and Accepting My Child and Their Need and (3) Support. The findings contribute to understanding families’ views and concerns regarding SEND education and the varying experiences encountered in different settings. Future research could focus upon what effective support for families and their children looks like and how to implement this within the education system. The second part presents the empirical research which sought to explore teachers’ lived experiences of wellbeing working within a special school. Eight individual SEND teachers working in specialist settings were interviewed in a semi structured format. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis there emerged four overarching themes; (1) “That’s the nature of the job”, (2) “It’s a different ball game”, (3) “your worst critic and your biggest supporter” and (4)”It is an emotional rollercoaster”. The findings highlight the gaps in knowledge and understanding around SEND education and its teachers. Findings suggest a lack of value given regardless of the complexity and demands of the role. Further research could focus on the lack of support experienced by SEND teachers and those involved in the education system. The third part presents a critical appraisal which sought to explore the wider systems involved within the education system and the implications and barriers that this created. It also presented researcher reflections regarding their role and discussed the benefits and limitations of the recruitment process.