SEND as a Catalyst for Innovation: a UK/North America Dialogue on the Future of Inclusive Learning Environments

The UK has developed significant expertise in SEND design, but many of the challenges driving innovation are shared internationally. Drawing on a North American study tour, LearningSCAPES 2026 and specialist SEND developments across the UK, this session explores how educators, designers and school districts on both sides of the Atlantic are responding to questions of inclusion, wellbeing and learner diversity. Through international case studies and practitioner insights, we examine sensory-responsive design, behaviour-informed planning, adaptable learning environments, community-centred provision and designing for independence, identifying lessons that can help shape the future of education for all learners.