We are a small team, but we have a wide variety of experience and specialism. We are passionate about what we do and love getting to know the families we support.
Learn more about us below.
SENDIASS Manager - Sarah Wike
Hi, I'm Sarah!
I manage the SENDIAS Service and have done so since 2004 (before 2014 it was called The Parent Partnership service). I have worked in the Local Authority for over 30 years. During this time I have also worked on other projects too. For example, I supported the SEN Parent Carer Forum and have also worked for IPSEA.
I have always studied to keep my professionals standards to do my job. I started as a qualified Nursery Nurse, then qualified as a teacher, gained two MA degrees and recently a further level 7 leadership and management qualification.
As a SENDIASS manager I have undertaken all the legal training expected of any member of staff who works in this area. I make sure I keep up to date with SEND specific changes in legislation or government guidance.
All my work experience has been around working with families. I have been an Early Years Family Worker, a Portage Worker, Early Years Foundation stage community tutor. I have worked with volunteers to develop support in roles to others in local communities. I have worked with families in the home to develop English as an additional language to children. This helped children whose families were seeking asylum. I have developed an early years development group for children on the local Gypsy Traveller site. I have also lead and managed projects and services.
I enjoy working with families. I am experienced and knowledgeable in SEND and encourage parents, carers, children and young people with SEND to work with us. This enables them to make informed decisions.
I learnt very quickly that families are the heart of the SEND community. They teach me how to provide the quality of service and interaction they deserve to receive, this is the foundation that SENDIASS is led by.
In my personal time I like to spend time with my own family, swim and walk, and meet friends.
I don’t like the colder winter months and when its darker shorter days.
Sarah
SEND Case Advisor - Ria Jones
Hi, my name is Ria Jones and I am a SENDIASS Case Advisor and have worked for SENDIASS since 2019.
Before joining SENDIASS I worked as a teacher. I worked across KS1 and KS2. I also spent a brief time teaching at post 16 college but mainly my teaching was in Reception/Y1.
Prior to becoming a teacher, I worked for the NHS as a project worker for Targeted Mental Health in Schools. This involved working directly with children and young people in schools to support with various social, emotional and mental health difficulties.
Since joining SENDIASS I have completed the required legal training. I make sure that my knowledge is kept up to date with any changes to SEND specific legislation.
As part of my current role as Case Advisor I work directly with families and children/young people. This is my favourite part of the job! I enjoy getting to know people and working with families. This allows me to understand how we as a service can best support them.
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my two daughters and socialising with friends.
I don’t like pigeons or Turkish delight.
SEND Case Advisor - Oliver Griffin
Hello!
My name is Oliver Griffin and I am a SEND Case Advisor and newest member of the team.
Before joining the team, I worked in Outreach supporting families children and young people in the community. I also have experience working in primary schools as a HLTA. This meant that I engaged with children from the early years up to year 6 in a variety of lessons. I would also specifically support children with SEN.
Joining SENDIASS has allowed me to better understand the unique journey of people with special educational needs. Working alongside an amazing team with a shared dynamic approach to offering information advice and support.
Working alongside people is something I thrive doing. I like listening to understand the various ways people may need support. Offering advice to achieve positive outcomes is a key part of my job fulfilment.
Outside of work I enjoy being creative with how I spend my time. I enjoy listening to music and exercise, luckily so does my son and dog!
I don’t like warm weather or having to stay inside too long.