CDC presents the CDC SEND Awards - 23 April 2026
Join us at the Great Hall, Birmingham University, Edgbaston Campus The Great Hall – University of Birmingham | Conferences and Events for an Awards Ceremony celebrating What Works in SEND. We will be celebrating collaborative systems, innovation and service improvement in SEND across ten categories. The Awards will be followed by an early evening drinks reception.
"IMPOWER is delighted to sponsor the ‘CDC SEND’ Awards. These awards shine a spotlight on innovation and excellence in SEND practice. At IMPOWER we are proud to play a part in recognising and sharing this vital work. Across the country, there are examples of brilliance in the way children and young people with SEND are supported. These awards celebrate those achievements and not only honour the individuals and teams making a difference every day but also help to share learning and inspire others. By highlighting what outstanding practice looks like, these awards contribute to improving services for all children, their families, and the wider community. The IMPOWER team is delighted to support an event that champions such meaningful work."
Registration for this event is now closed.
We look forward to welcoming everyone who will be joining us on the day.
Please click here for key information about the event.
Awards
Partnership for Early Years Inclusion: Recognising strong partnerships and inclusive practice in Early Years settings that support all children to thrive.
Partnership with the VCSE Sector: Recognising strong, collaborative work with the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector to improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND.
Accessible and Inclusive Communications Strategy for SEND: Recognising excellence in clear, inclusive, and co-produced communication across the SEND system.
Unity in Leadership for SEND: Celebrating strong, collaborative leadership that drives positive change across the SEND system.
Shared System Vision for SEND: Recognising local areas with a clear, inclusive, and co-produced vision that drives improvement across the SEND system.
Best Integrated Service or Team: Celebrating outstanding collaboration across services to deliver joined-up support for children and young people with SEND.
Preparing for Adulthood: Recognising outstanding support for young people with SEND as they transition into adulthood.
Partnership for Inclusion (Local Authority and Schools): Recognising strong collaboration between local authorities and schools to embed inclusive practice and improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND.
The Service That Made the Difference to Me: Celebrating the people and services that have made a real difference in the lives of children, young people, and families. This award is for a child, young person, or parent carer to nominate a service or individual who has made a positive impact on their life.
Excellence in Co-Production: Recognising outstanding local area approaches to co-production across children and young people and parent carers.
Click here to find out about the awards, nominees and winners