TV star encourages businesses to employ SEND learners 

Young actor Daniel Laurie, famous for his role as Reggie in BBC’s Call the Midwife, has called on businesses to recognise the many benefits of employing young people with learning disabilities. 

Daniel, who has Down’s Syndrome, gave the keynote talk at one of two virtual events led by London South East Colleges. Hosted in partnership with the Education and Training Foundation (ETF), the sessions were aimed at giving practical advice to employers about the recruitment of SEND learners and the many benefits of having a fully inclusive workforce. 

London South East Colleges is one of eight FE providers nationally to have been selected by the ETF as an ‘employer spoke’ of its Centres of Excellence in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (CfESEND) – owing to its strong track record of supporting SEND learners into employment. These events are part of a series of activity to help encourage businesses to diversify their workforce. 

The first event was for employers within the Creative Arts sector and the second was aimed at the Sports and Leisure Industries. Representatives from businesses – including Unicorn Theatre and Charlton Athletic Community Trust who already employ SEND learners – shared their insight and positive experiences. 

Experts from the College were also on hand to advise delegates on ways to build partnerships with SEND teams in colleges and how best to access funding opportunities. 

Speaking in a recorded video message, young star Daniel Laurie spoke about his own experiences of working in the creative arts industry and the success he has had. He said: 

“There are so many different wonderful jobs you can do in the theatre. I love being an actor. They say all you have to do is speak up and don’t bump into the furniture, but most of the hard work comes the day before filming. Preparation is vital! 

“As my grandfather would say, keep on keeping on. Be yourself, don’t worry about what anyone else thinks or says. Look at me and know that you can do it too.” 

Commenting on the programme, Rhona Sapsford, Career Pathway Director of SEND ESOL and ALS at London South East Colleges, says:  

“Through our many years of experience, we know how much value SEND learners can add to businesses – and the benefits to be gained on both sides.  

“We are delighted to have hosted these events with the ETF, to provide employers with the information and support they need to work with us and actively recruit young people with learning disabilities.  

“Having Daniel share his own personal experiences was a huge highlight. His success is testament to his talent and determination as well as the support he has had from his family – and he is an absolute inspiration to many of our own students who are perhaps interested in a career in creative arts.  

“Hearing first-hand from employers who already have wonderfully inclusive workforces was also fantastic and I hope this has inspired other businesses to consider offering work experience, internships and employment to these talented young people.”  

London South East Colleges offers outstanding SEND provision for 16-24-year-olds – supporting them into employment and independent living. For more information visit: www.LSEC.ac.uk 

For more information about the ETF’s CfESEND programme, visit: https://send.excellencegateway.org.uk/