Growing expertise for inclusive practice
Oaklands' ROOTS CPD specialises in providing transformative in-person training for educators aimed at enhancing their skills in supporting Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) inclusion.
Our carefully designed courses equip teachers and leaders with the tools necessary to create inclusive learning environments where every child can thrive.
With a focus on practical strategies, collaborative learning, and expert guidance from experienced facilitators, we are dedicated to fostering an educational environment that values diversity and promotes equity in learning.
Our Dedicated Team
Meet Our Team of Experts
Sarah Osborne
Head Teacher
Sarah is an experienced teacher and school leader, and has been the Headteacher of Oaklands School since 2018. She previously chaired the City of Leicester Special School Association of Headteachers for three years.
Holding a First Class Honours degree in Teaching Studies and Drama from St Mary’s University, London, she began her career in mainstream schools in London, Lincolnshire & Leicestershire before specialising in special educational needs.
Passionate about inclusion, she is dedicated to supporting pupils with SEND and EAL, working closely with families, the local authority, national networks and the wider community to promote autism acceptance and improve long-term outcomes for children and young people.
Ingrid Spencer
Deputy Head Teacher
With almost 30 years of experience in primary, secondary, SEND and university education, Ingrid has been a Deputy Head Teacher since 2014. She began her teaching career in Japan on the JET Programme before returning to the UK to complete a PGCE in Secondary English with Media at the University of Leicester, and has received numerous awards for her teaching.
Since moving into primary leadership in 2014, Ingrid has served as Deputy Headteacher roles in both mainstream and special education, leading significant improvements in teaching, learning, curriculum design and assessment, with their work receiving recognition through external reviews and inspections.
Ingrid is passionate about curriculum and has worked to develop the pedagogy and curriculum offer at Oaklands, helping the school to receive national acclaim for its work with autistic learners.
Vicky Bland
Assistant Head Teacher
With over 25 years’ experience in education, Vicky specialises in supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, particularly Autism.
She has developed and lead a Nurture Pathway for learners working at Engagement Model level, ensuring meaningful, personalised learning. Vicky leads Communication, Interaction and Social Skills across the curriculum and am passionate about improving SEND provision for all.
As a qualified Makaton Tutor and certified Engagement Model and Team Teach trainer, she empowers staff through professional development. She has also designed and delivered training for trainee teachers, supporting the next generation of inclusive practitioners and promoting positive outcomes.
Sally Bott
Assistant Head Teacher
With over 20 years’ experience in education, Sally specialises in supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, particularly Autism.
She leads emotional regulation and wellbeing across the school for both pupils and staff, fostering a positive, inclusive environment.
As a Team Teach trainer and Senior Mental Health Lead, she is committed to promoting safe, supportive practices. She is also a Lead Practitioner for Early Help Assessments, working closely with families and professionals.
She has developed and delivered training for staff and parents on positive behaviour support and trauma-informed practice, helping build understanding, resilience, and improved outcomes for all learners.
Sammy Nour
Assistant Head Teacher
Sammy has experience of teaching in a range of settings, including mainstream primary in Leicester, London and overseas, as well as having taught and led in SEND primary and secondary schools.
He is passionate about inclusion and supporting autistic pupils to be more active and experienced in their local communities and beyond. Pupils at Oaklands access a wide range of Educational Visits, which Sammy leads on.
Sammy is also a Team Teach trainer and works to sustain a positive behaviour in school, focused on building strong relationships between pupils and staff, as well as reducing the need for physical interventions.