Developing Person-Centred Pen Portraits

Behind every label, diagnosis or EHCP is a child with their own story and person-centred pen portraits are a powerful way to ensure that story is seen, heard and respected. Done well, a pen portrait can provide a clear, accessible summary of who the child is, what matters to them, and how best to support them. Done poorly, or not at all, and they risk reducing children to their challenges rather than recognising their strengths. 

This live in-person event, presented by SEND Consultant Grace Ingleton, is designed for SEND professionals who want to use pen portraits meaningfully and effectively, ensuring that children and young people remain at the centre of their provision. We’ll explore what makes a good pen portrait, how to co-create them with the child and famil, and how to ensure they actually inform day-to-day practice. 

In this training, you will learn: 

• The purpose and value of person-centred pen portraits in SEND practice 

• What information to include and what to leave out 

• How to gather the child’s voice in authentic and appropriate ways 

• Strategies for involving parents/carers in the process 

• How to make pen portraits usable for all staff (and not just another document on the system) 

• Examples of effective formats and templates you can adapt for your setting 

This session will give you the tools to create pen portraits that are not only compliant, but genuinely person-centred and impactful. 

Tickets are priced to take into account school budgets.   

This event is targeted specifically at professionals who work with SEND children. If this is not you, you will not find the content relevant to you and we advise that you do not book on.   

Also check out other Workshops in Derby, Virtual events in Derby.