Sensory Classroom

40 Episodes
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By: Jordan Garratt

If you been following Specialist Education Teacher Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

EP 54: Teaching PMLD with @sensoryshakeup
#14
Today at 8:00 AM

In this episode Jordan and Rachael from @sensoryshakeup discuss what it is like teaching in a class for learners with PMLD (physical, mental and learning disabilities). We discuss what learning looks like, how her team navigate their day, goals they are working on to improve practice, what happens after they leave school.... and so much more.

This punchy 60 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring in to your own classroom.

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear...


EP 53: Neurodivergence in a Post-Pandemic Classroom with Dr Morgan Beidleman
#13
11/23/2025

In this episode of the Sensory Classroom Podcast, host Jordan speaks with Dr. Morgan Beidleman, an expert in education and psychology, about her career journey in supporting neurodivergent children. They discuss the importance of understanding learning disabilities, the dynamic nature of disabilities, and the need for inclusive classroom environments. Dr. Beidleman shares strategies for teachers to support neurodivergent students, the significance of building relationships with students, and the role of parents in navigating educational challenges. The conversation highlights the importance of emotional regulation, social and emotional learning, and the resources available for parents and educators.

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EP 52: The Importance of Being an Investigator
#12
11/16/2025

In this enlightening conversation, Jordan and Victoria discuss the profound impact of gut health on her child's behaviour, particularly in the context of autism and sensory processing. Victoria shares her personal journey as a parent navigating dietary changes, the challenges of education, and the importance of understanding sensory needs. The discussion emphasises the need for tailored approaches to parenting and education, highlighting the significance of creating supportive environments for neurodivergent children. Victoria's insights offer valuable perspectives for parents seeking to understand and support their children's unique needs.

Victoria Lenormand is a former police detective with 28...


EP 51: When is a special interest not appropriate?
#11
11/09/2025

In this episode of the Sensory Classroom podcast, Jordan and Sammie discuss the concept of age-appropriateness in education, particularly for neurodivergent students. They explore how societal perceptions of what is deemed appropriate can impact the interests and needs of children with complex communication needs.

The conversation emphasises the importance of creating safe spaces for students to express their interests without judgment, advocating for a person-centred approach that prioritises individual needs over societal expectations. They also touch on the challenges caregivers face in public settings and the importance of community support.

Sign up the...


EP 50: A Holistic Approach to Speech and Sensory Therapy
#10
11/02/2025

In this episode of the Sensory Classroom podcast, Jordan speaks with Sophia and Ellie from Regulate to Communicate about their innovative approach to learning that integrates sensory regulation and communication strategies.

They discuss the importance of creating a safe environment for students to engage and learn effectively, emphasising the need for a holistic approach that combines occupational therapy and speech therapy. The conversation covers the three stages of their approach, the challenges faced by educators, and the significance of staff wellbeing in implementing these strategies successfully.

Regulate to Communicate website: https://www.regulatetocommunicate.com

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EP 49: The Screen Time Dilemma with Dr Naomi Fisher
#9
10/26/2025

In this conversation, Dr. Naomi Fisher, a clinical psychologist specialising in autism and trauma therapy, discusses the complexities of home education and the nuanced perspectives on screen time for children. The discussion also touches on the societal pressures faced by parents regarding educational choices and the significance of imaginative play in both traditional and digital contexts.

Dr Naomi Fisher's website: https://naomifisher.co.uk/

Sign up the Octopus Energy here: https://sensoryclassroom.octopus.energy

This punchy 70 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and...


EP 48: Why Sensory Experiences Matter with @willowssensory
#8
10/19/2025

In this engaging conversation, Jordan and Sarah discuss the importance of sensory learning for individuals with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD).

They explore creative sensory ideas, practical activities, and the significance of understanding individual interests and needs. The discussion also touches on navigating sensitive topics like loss and bereavement, the importance of age appropriateness in learning, and the need for training and empowering educators to effectively support their students.

Sarah shares her experiences and insights, emphasising the value of building relationships through interaction and the necessity of being reflective in teaching practices.

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EP 47: The Impact of Raising a Child with a Rare Condition
#7
10/12/2025

In this enlightening conversation, Jordan and Emily discuss the complexities of parenting a neurodiverse child, focusing on Emily's daughter Autumn, who has an ultra-rare neurodevelopmental condition. They explore the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, the importance of communication between parents and educators, and the emotional journey of acceptance and grief. Emily shares her insights as a clinical psychologist and a mother, emphasising the need for self-care, advocacy, and the significance of small, manageable steps in supporting children with special needs.

This punchy 65 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips...


EP 46: Nurture Groups in Mainstream Schools
#6
10/05/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Faria @agentsenco discuss Nurture Groups in Mainstream Schools, including how she has effectively run hers, what an average day looks like, how to make it successful.... and so much more.

This punchy 45 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring in to your own classroom. Subscribe to support...


EP 45: How to get the EHCP right with Educational Lawyer, Samantha Hale
#5
09/28/2025

In this episode of the Sensory Classroom podcast, Jordan and education lawyer Samantha discuss the complexities of Educational Health Care Plans (EHCPs) in the UK. They explore the importance of understanding the EHCP process, the key sections of the plan, and the common pitfalls parents face when seeking support for children with special educational needs.

Samantha emphasises the need for clear evidence and communication with local authorities, as well as the legal rights parents have in securing the necessary provisions for their children. The conversation provides valuable insights for parents, teachers, and SENCOs navigating the education system.<...


EP 44: Anxiety in and Around School
#4
09/21/2025

In this conversation, Jordan and Padraig discuss the rising levels of anxiety in children, particularly in educational settings. They explore the impact of parenting styles, the importance of creating safe learning environments, and the need for preparation and routine to help children manage anxiety.

The discussion also delves into the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent children and the significance of building resilience and connection with teenagers. They emphasise the importance of collaboration among educators, parents, and therapists to support children effectively and advocate for their needs.

To book onto the workshop mentioned at the end...


EP 43: AAC in the home with @aacbrothers
#3
09/14/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Faye @aacbrothers discuss being an autism family and how AAC has been life changing, including how best to access a high tech AAC device, how to introduce AAC to a child, their own pathway journey.... and so much more.

This punchy 40 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to...


EP 42: Total Communication with Marissa Webb
#2
09/07/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Marissa @marissagpwebb discuss Total Communication, which is seen as an affirming approach to speech and language support. They discuss what it looks like in practise, talking through how we can ensure we are promoting communication and honouring al attempts.... and so much more.

This punchy 55 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to...


EP 41: Building Connections: A Mother's Journey with @twins_tides_and_autism_vibes
#1
08/31/2025

In this episode of the Sensory Classroom podcast, Jordan speaks with Charlotte, a mother of four, including two autistic children. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of parenting in a blended family, the importance of early diagnosis, and the role of community support in navigating autism. Charlotte shares her journey of connecting with her children through play, the significance of sensory integration, and the necessity of building strong relationships with educators and support staff. The conversation emphasises the power of empathy, understanding, and collaboration in fostering a supportive environment for children with special needs.

This punchy 30 minute...


SUMMER RECAP 4
08/24/2025

This August, whilst I am busy recording Series 2 of the podcast for the next academic year, I have compiled my favourite moments from series one to look back on with you.

Maybe you missed a crucial episode and want to listen back in full? You can do so here: https://sensoryclassroom.org/pages/podcast

Thank you so much for your incredible support for this first series, I hope you are looking forward to Series 2 as much as I am.

If you would like to be a guest...


SUMMER RECAP 3
08/17/2025

This August, whilst I am busy recording Series 2 of the podcast for the next academic year, I have compiled my favourite moments from series one to look back on with you.

Maybe you missed a crucial episode and want to listen back in full? You can do so here: https://sensoryclassroom.org/pages/podcast

Thank you so much for your incredible support for this first series, I hope you are looking forward to Series 2 as much as I am.

If you would like to be a guest...


SUMMER RECAP 2
08/10/2025

This August, whilst I am busy recording Series 2 of the podcast for the next academic year, I have compiled my favourite moments from series one to look back on with you.

Maybe you missed a crucial episode and want to listen back in full? You can do so here: https://sensoryclassroom.org/pages/podcast

Thank you so much for your incredible support for this first series, I hope you are looking forward to Series 2 as much as I am.

If you would like to be a guest...


SUMMER RECAP 1
08/03/2025

This August, whilst I am busy recording Series 2 of the podcast for the next academic year, I have compiled my favourite moments from series one to look back on with you.

Maybe you missed a crucial episode and want to listen back in full? You can do so here: https://sensoryclassroom.org/pages/podcast

Thank you so much for your incredible support for this first series, I hope you are looking forward to Series 2 as much as I am.

If you would like to be a guest...


EP 40: Neurodivergence in Females and Masking
#40
07/27/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Julia from @sunflowerautism discuss neurodivergence in females and her own experiences as a woman with ADHD, whilst parenting a neurodivergent female and how both support her consultancy business for parents.... and so much more.

This punchy 40 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring in to your own classroom.

LISTEN...


EP 39: Understanding the Sensory System, with OT Ali Neal
#39
07/20/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Occupational Therapist, Ali Neal, @schoolsensorysolutions discuss the sensory system and what each may look like for your child. They cover how to support your child make sense of their senses, how to support meeting them safely.... and so much more.

This punchy 50 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring in to...


EP 38: The SEN Inbetweeners
#38
07/13/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Lauren @victoryus.lv discuss how best to support those inbetweeners that neither fit in mainstream or a specialist setting, including how teachers can better identify and support these pupils, how parents can support their 'inbetweener', the importance of EHCPs, how to support PDA profile learners... and so much more.

This punchy 50 minute episode is packed to the brim...


EP 37: The Importance of Repsite
#37
07/06/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Emily & Kirsty from Our Space, discuss respite, including what respite can look like in schools and in the holidays, the importance of respite, the huge benefits for the whole family, what activities they have on offer.... and so much more.

This punchy 35 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips...


EP 36: Our Journey to Acceptance
#36
06/29/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Journey2Autism (Emily and Stuart) have an in depth heart to heart conversation on their own ongoing journey to acceptance of their 4 year old son’s autism and their new normal. It’s wonderful to hear from parents that are so open and honest about the realities of having an autistic child, alongside the love and wonder of it all.


EP 35: Being a Sibling to Someone with High Care Needs
#35
06/22/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Josie from @ladybuglodgeSEND all about her life experience as a sibling to her sister who has high support needs, and how that led her on to create her own activities lodge.... and so much more.

This punchy 45 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring in to your own classroom.

...


EP 34: How to build connection for better communication
#34
06/15/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Natalia @speechesteem discuss how to optimise daily opportunities to communicate and build connecting with minimally speaking children, including how to approach a child for the first time, how to gain the best support from the team around the child, how to become the best language partner.... and so much more.

This punchy 45 minute episode...


EP 33: Navigating PDA and Autism as a Parent
#33
06/08/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Nicola from @happyhandswith_hallie, discuss how she navigates parenting with your neurodivergent family, why she has recently chosen to homeschool, her favourite sensory room resources.... and so much more.

This punchy 40 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring in to your own classroom.

Subscribe to support the pod, so...


EP 32: Introducing AAC to support Communication
#32
06/01/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Cassidy from @speechwithcassidy , discuss how to introduce AAC, inclusion how to assess how your child communicates already, how to select the right communication system for your child, how to best support their communication progress.... and so much more.

This punchy 40 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring in to your own...


EP 31: Teaching Autistic High Support Needs Teenagers
#31
05/25/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Ellie from @thesenteacher94 , discuss how best to support autistic teens in the classroom to better meet their sensory needs and communicate more effectively.... and so much more.

This punchy 55 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring in to your own classroom.

Subscribe to support the pod, so we can...


EP 30: SEN family support with EHCPs
#30
05/18/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Richard from SOS SEN charity, discuss how they support families with the legal processes involved in SEN education, including who is an EHCP for and how parents can access these with or without school support, how to gain supporting in writing legal letters to county on your child's education, how to access free advice.... and so much more.

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EP 29: The Importance of Sharing your Struggles with your Pupils
#29
05/11/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Jess from @theteacherexperience24 discuss her role as a SENCO in mainstream secondary, including how she uses her own difficulties to build connection with her pupils, her own SEN journey, strategies to support teenagers through exams.... and so much more.

This punchy 55 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to...


EP 28: Showing Progress for SEND pupils
#28
05/04/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Dale discuss how to assess and show progress for all children with SEND, including utilising software and tools to support your planning and assessment, why it is important to know the small steps, how to work out next steps... and so much more.

This punchy 45 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful...


EP 27: The Importance of Sensory Integration with Amy Stephens
#27
04/27/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Amy discuss the importance of sensory integration, including how to support children to feel safe, what we can do to best prepare children for learning, how to better support a child in crisis.... and so much more.

This punchy 55 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring in to your own classroom.<...


EP 26: Why it is important to be curious and BELIEVE the children you work with
#26
04/20/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Ruth @ruth_jones_SLT discuss affirming communication strategies for SEN, including how even the most affirming strategies can become problematic and how to avoid this, what her initial visits look like, what communication systems and resources she loves most.... and so much more.

This punchy 60 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful...


EP 25: Accessible Theatre with Frozen Light Theatre Company
#25
04/13/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan interviews Amber and Lucy, directors of Frozen Light Theatre Company, to learn more about accessibility in theatre and it's important to create a more inclusive community. They share the importance on training, welcoming spaces and what this means, including people with PMLD in the creation process, creating a safe environment to explore difficult topics... and so much more.

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EP 24: Communication in the Classroom with Chloe @chloePMLDteacher
#24
04/06/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan discusses Chloe's classroom communication strategies, including what methods she uses, what are her go to activities for Attention Autism and how she has built a supportive team.... and so much more.

This punchy 60 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring in to your own classroom.

<...


EP 23- PDA Parenting with Jessie @mrsjessietownz
#23
03/30/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jessie describes her own PDA parenting journey and both Jordan and Jessie answer your burning PDA questions including, what language should you use? How do we support a child in school? What is the diagnosis pathway? What are PDA best practises... and so much more.

This punchy 70 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful...


EP 22 - No Teacher has it all worked out all of the time! with Sammie @spectrumpatronum
#22
03/23/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode, Jordan and Sammie @spectrumpatronum discuss using AAC in their sensory classrooms and what that looks like; including how we do or don't manage to do it all all of the time, how we manage a busy classroom, how best to introduce AAC... and so much more.

This punchy 60 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips...


EP 21- Building Connection with your Autistic child, with SALT Lisa from @peachy_speech
#21
03/16/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Speech and Language Therapist, Lisa from @peachy_speech discuss how to build connection through play with autistic learners. They discuss what affirming practise looks like, how to get started, how to allow the child to become the expert... and so much more.

This punchy 60 minute episode is packed to the brim with useful insights and tips to bring...


EP 20- SEND in Mainstream EYFS with Specialist Anna
#20
03/09/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Anna discuss what true inclusion looks like in her mainstream EYFS classroom. Together they answer your questions, including how to set up your classroom to best support all children, how to manage workload on teachers, how to support your team.... and so much more.

This punchy 60 minute episode is packed to the brim with...


EP 19 Utilising EYFS strategies for all SEN pupils with Simon Inclusion Teacher
#19
03/02/2025

Have you been following Jordan @sensoryclass on social media for a while and want to hear more behind the scenes stories from inside her sensory classroom, then you're in the right place.

In this episode Jordan and Simon discuss using Early Years structure and strategies to support all SEN children of all ages and stages, as well as answering your burning questions, including what inclusion looks like in a mainstream classroom, how to support SEN as a supply teacher and so much more!

This punchy 60 minute episode is packed to the brim with...