Olly Dean

I am the Strategic Lead of Fusion SEND Hub and I have worked for the Fusion SEND Hub since September 2017. I previously worked as lead autism teacher and autism outreach teacher at a specialist school in North London. I have worked in mainstream and specialist education settings, including primary, secondary, post-16 and residential provision. Most of my work in education has been in specialist settings for autistic learners as well as those with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. My roles have included senior leadership, pastoral management, behaviour support, teaching, training and residential management. I have been a qualified trainer with the Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI), safeguarding lead and assistant director of a residential school holiday camp for children with SEND.

I have led whole-school approaches to improving outcomes for learners with autism as well as those with behavioural needs, which have had measurably positive outcomes.  I am passionate about disability rights as well as inclusion for learners with SEND. My principal areas of interest and experience are around autism, ADHD and SEMH needs. I have studied autism at postgraduate level at the University of Birmingham and have worked with the National Autistic Society in undertaking Autism Accreditation reviews at schools across England. I have also undertaken a wide range of research into other areas of SEND, which helps to inform my current work. 

My role includes supporting schools and families to understand the needs of their learners with SEND and helping them to develop their skills and knowledge to meet those needs, as well as affecting strategy and cultural change in relation to SEND. I approach all learners individually and believe in the importance of understanding all aspects of their needs, which often involves detailed assessments and focused observations. Approachability and adaptability are key elements of my role, as is providing practical and personalised advice.