On Wednesday 23 November, Philippa Stobbs gave a valedictory address to delegates in parliament, marking her retirement after working at the Council for Disabled Children (CDC) and the National Children's Bureau for more than 32 years.
The parliamentary address provided an opportunity to hear Philippa's reflections on developments in Special Educational Needs (SEN) and disability, and inclusion over recent decades and her insights into what needs to happen next.
Philippa has dedicated her entire career to improving outcomes for children with special educational needs and disabilities, having started as a teacher and inspector and then spent over three decades here at CDC. Philippa is a prolific, powerful advocate for children with SEN and disabilities and it’s hard to imagine how anyone could have made more of a difference to the SEN and disability community; she continues to be an inspiration to the entire sector.
Philippa has accomplished so much in her career and this has been acknowledged within the sector, most notably, when she was awarded the prestigious 'Person of the Year' award from nasen. Her achievements and contributions are unequivocal. Below we list highlights of the work that Philippa has played a key role in.