Mary Hare Student Helps Shape the SEND Conversation in Parliament

Mary Hare student, Jasper recently took part in a special Speech, Language and Communication Alliance Young People’s Committee event at the Houses of Parliament, where he joined other young people from across the UK to discuss SEND and education issues directly with MPs.

The event, organised by Speech and Language UK and supported by the Speech, Language and Communication Alliance, brought together 12 children and young people with lived experience of speech, language and communication needs. Participants were given the opportunity to prepare and present questions to a cross-party panel of MPs on issues that matter most to them.

Held on Monday 22 June in one of Parliament's Select Committee rooms, the event was attended by MPs Jen Craft, Saqib Bhatti, Helen Hayes and Jess Phillips, who listened to and responded to questions from each young person.

Jasper's question focused on the Government's proposed SEND reforms and the importance of parental choice in education. Drawing on discussions he had previously held with Mary Hare staff about the Schools White Paper, 'Every Child Achieving and Thriving', Jasper developed a thoughtful question based on his own experiences and the experiences of other young people.

The event provided a valuable platform for young people to share their perspectives directly with decision-makers and contribute to national conversations about the future of SEND provision and education.

Jasper was accompanied by Speech and Language Therapist, Laura Dearsley, from Mary Hare School, who helped support and prepare him for the event. The opportunity first arose through Assistant Principal for Inclusion and Therapies, Katherine Clements, whose encouragement helped Jasper become involved with the Young People’s Committee.

Jasper's family attended the event and praised the supportive environment created by both the organisers and the MPs, who took time to listen carefully and respond thoughtfully to each question raised.

Reflecting on the experience, Jasper's parents expressed their gratitude to Katherine and Laura for their support and dedication in helping prepare him for such a significant opportunity.

We are incredibly proud of Jasper for representing Mary Hare with confidence, maturity and insight. His participation highlights the importance of ensuring young people's voices are heard in discussions that shape their education and future opportunities.