Hi, I’m Katy Leckenby. I’ve spent most of my 17-year teaching career in special education settings. In recent years I have worked at Ace Centre which is a national charity, where I support schools and services to develop inclusive practice—particularly for learners with complex physical and / or communication needs. My focus is on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Assistive Technology (AT). At Ace Centre I deliver consultancy and training to help educators feel confident using AAC and AT to support learner's access, engagement, and communication in the classroom. I’m also the author of “AAC and Aided Language in the Classroom: Breaking Down Barriers for Learners with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs”, which is part of the Nasen Spotlight Series. The book is designed to be practical and accessible, offering ideas and reflections for anyone working with children and young people who use AAC. I’m passionate about making sure every learner has a voice and a way to participate meaningfully in their education. If you're working in SEND and looking to build your confidence around AAC or AT, I’d love to connect.

www.lewis-support.co uk Louise has 20 years of experience in education, specialising in supporting students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Holding a Postgraduate Certificate in Language, Literacies and Dyslexia, alongside Approved Teacher Status (ATS) from the British Dyslexia Association (BDA), and a PGCE from Exeter University, Louise has delivered a diverse range of subjects from Pre-Key Stages to A-levels. Passionate about the transformative power of education, Louise finds joy in teaching and supporting young learners, ensuring that all young people, regardless of their abilities, can access education. With a keen interest in complex communication needs, Louise has experience working with AAC users and is currently pursuing British Sign Language (BSL) Level 1 certification.

I was a special schools teacher for 28 years then an ICT SEN Advisor for a local education authority before setting up my own Assistive Technology company doing consultancy, assessment and training in the area of Assistive Technology. I am a council member for the British Assistive Technology Association and the producer of "The Power of Assistive Technology film series.  I am a freelancre trainer with Neurobox as well as an international speaker  at events here in the UK at The Dyslexia Show,  BETT Show & BDA groups around the country