Raising Potential episodes

Episode 1: Welcome to Raising Potential

Welcome to the Raising Potential Podcast, brought to you by Aspris.

In our introductory episode, host Tora Millward explains what listeners can expect from the series and introduces the experts who will be sharing their knowledge and experiences. Learn more about Aspris, our commitment to supporting children and young people, and the topics we’ll be exploring throughout the series, including autism, ADHD, SEND support, EHCPs and specialist education.

Whether you’re at the start of your journey or looking for additional guidance, Raising Potential is here to help you feel informed, supported and empowered.

Episode length: 3 minutes

Episode 2: Why might your child benefit from a specialist school?

How do you know when your child may need additional support in education?

In this episode, Dr Wendy Sparling draws on more than 30 years of experience in autism and specialist education to discuss some of the signs that may indicate a child is struggling in a mainstream setting. Wendy explores autism, ADHD and social, emotional and mental health needs, helping parents and carers better understand when specialist education may be beneficial.

Through expert insight and personal experience, she shares practical guidance to help families recognise their child’s individual needs and access the right support at the right time.

Episode length: 37 minutes

Episode 3: Understanding EHCPs

Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) can feel confusing and overwhelming, particularly if you’re navigating the process for the first time.

In this episode, experienced headteacher Nicola Craig explains what an EHCP is, how the process works and how it can help children and young people access the support they need. Nicola answers some of the most common questions families have and offers practical guidance to help listeners better understand the journey ahead.

If you’ve ever wondered where to start with an EHCP, this episode is for you.

Episode length: 22 minutes

Episode 4: Finding the right specialist school for your child

Once an EHCP is in place, what happens next?

In the second part of our EHCP series, award-winning headteacher Lisa Price discusses school placement, specialist provision and how families can identify the educational setting that best meets their child’s needs.

Lisa shares practical advice and professional insight to help parents and carers navigate the next stage of the process with confidence, ensuring they feel informed when making important decisions about their child’s education.

Episode length: 38 minutes

Episode 5: What makes a specialist school different?

What does life in a specialist school really look like?

Join education leaders Lisa Sharrock and Natalie Woods as they share an inside perspective on specialist education, exploring how schools adapt their environments, teaching approaches and support systems to meet individual needs.

Together, they discuss personalised learning, inclusion, therapeutic support and the importance of building strong relationships that enable children and young people to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

Whether you’re considering specialist education or simply want to understand more about SEND provision, this episode offers valuable insight into what makes specialist schools unique.

Episode length: 32 minutes

Episode 6: Supporting your autistic child at home and navigating family life

Supporting an autistic child extends far beyond the classroom, and every family’s journey is different.

In our final episode of series one, Rebecca McArthur shares practical advice for supporting autistic children at home while balancing the realities of everyday family life. Drawing on both her extensive professional experience and her personal journey as a parent of a child with autism and complex needs, Rebecca offers thoughtful guidance, reassurance and encouragement for families.

Together, we explore strategies for supporting wellbeing, building confidence, managing challenges and creating positive family experiences that help children and young people reach their potential.

Episode length: 32 minutes