Calm, connection and comfort in a season of change 

As the nights draw in and the excitement of Halloween, Guy Fawkes and dare I say it Christmas, fills the air, October often brings a mix of energy and exhaustion. For many learners (and adults!), this time of year can stir up big feelings, change in routines, sensory overload from decorations and costumes, and the first real dip into darker evenings. 

It’s the perfect moment to pause, take stock, and remind ourselves that calm and connection are where learning begins. 

Taking Stock: A Trauma-Informed Pause 

In trauma-informed education, we recognise that behaviour is communication, and that regulation must come before reasoning or recall. 
This month, try three gentle steps to steady the pace: 

• Pause – Step back and notice what’s working. What sparks joy or calm in your classroom? 

• Notice – Celebrate the small wins: a learner joining group time, trying a new sound, or sharing an idea. 

• Nurture – Create pockets of calm through rhythm, routine, and sensory safety. 

New Podcast Series Now Live: Catching Up with Sarah & Ginny

I am so excited to announce the launch of my new podcast series which is a joint venture with the fabulous Ginny Bootman.

Catching up with Sarah and Ginny, is a podcast where inclusive education meets real-world practice. Dr Sarah Moseley, literacy and SEND specialist, and Ginny Bootman, SEND and relationships specialist, bring you lively and down-to-earth conversations about what really works in classrooms today.

Whether you're an SENCO, school leader, ECT, or TA, this podcast offers fresh ideas, research insights, and quick wins that you can bring to your day-to-day. Come on in for evidence-based strategies, and practical takeaways that will make a difference to teachers, parents / carers and learners alike.

If you enjoy it, please do subscribe.

You can listen in all the usual places (just click on the images below to take you straight there):

There are currently two episodes to catch up on:

1. SEND, Curiosity and a Cuppa: In this episode of 'Catching Up with Sarah and Ginny', the hosts discuss the importance of community connections in education, the impact of sensory experiences on learning, and the necessity of embracing change and flexibility in teaching. They share personal anecdotes about small changes that can make a big difference, the significance of music and joy in the classroom, and the importance of continuous learning as educators. The conversation also touches on dyscalculia with guest Rob Jennings, highlighting the need for awareness and support in mathematics education.

2. Ginny Catches up with Dave McPartlin: In this episode of 'Catching Up with Sarah and Ginny', the hosts discuss the importance of community connections in education, the impact of sensory experiences on learning, and the necessity of embracing change and flexibility in teaching. They share personal anecdotes about small changes that can make a big difference, the significance of music and joy in the classroom, and the importance of continuous learning as educators. The conversation also touches on dyscalculia with guest Rob Jennings, highlighting the need for awareness and support in mathematics education.

Much of my work this term has focused on trauma-informed practice, and reading TEN through that lens reminded me of some powerful truths: 

• Safety creates possibility – when learners feel safe, they can take risks and find their voice. 

• Voice matters – agency transforms both confidence and community. 

• Connection before correction – empathy and relationship are the roots of change. 

• Resilience is relational – hope grows in connection, not isolation. 

•  Small actions create ripples – much like the starfish story that inspires my own work, each small act can make a world of difference. 

It’s a perfect autumn read for older learners or staff reflections a reminder that every child has the potential to make change when they feel safe enough to shine. 

You can listen to a preview of it HERE.

Upcoming Events & Training

2nd December 2025: What is an inclusive Definition of Reading?

Click on the image above to read more about my session and book your place.

Click on the image above to open and find out more.

Along with the above training sessions, I also facilitate 4 successful SWALSS network groups:

• Reading Subject Leaders Network Group

• Phonics Professional Support Group

• Writing Professional Support Group

• Early Years Leadership Network Group

Next on the blog

A focus on Oracy — the final instalment of my three part Inclusive Literacy series & building on my recently published reading & writing blogs.  You can catch up on the first two posts here:

Resources That Caught My Eye

Key Takeaway - One Small Change 

Each month, I’ll leave you with a thought, a takeaway, or a simple idea to spark reflection and action. 

Begin each day or lesson with a calm, predictable routine, soft lighting, gentle music, and a few moments to settle before learning begins. When we slow the start, we create safety, signal care, and help every learner’s brain move from survival to learning mode. Calm openings lead to calmer days. 

I hope you all have a fantastic half term break - I’m reminded how much strength there is in slowing down. This season invites us to reflect — not to rush — and to notice the quiet moments of progress that can so easily pass us by.

Whether it’s a learner taking a brave new step, a colleague offering a kind word, or a classroom that feels just a little calmer, these are the ripples that shape lasting change.

As we move into next half term, may we hold onto calm, nurture connection, and find comfort in knowing that every small action makes a difference.

Wishing you a steady, gentle close to October — and the energy to welcome what’s next.

Warmly,
Sarah