Claire Walley

Claire Walley is an experienced education leader, SEND specialist, and founder of The SEN Expert, a consultancy
dedicated to improving outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
(SEND). With over two decades of experience in education, Claire has held senior leadership roles across mainstream and
specialist settings, leading whole-school improvement, inclusion strategies, safeguarding, and SEND provision.
She has worked with schools, trusts, local authorities, and families across the UK and internationally, providing
expert guidance on SEND leadership, EHCPs, school improvement, and inclusive practice. As a recognised advocate for SEND reform, Claire supports schools to develop effective, sustainable systems that improve educational outcomes while ensuring compliance with statutory duties. Through The SEN Expert, she delivers SEND audits, leadership coaching, policy development, training, tribunal support, and strategic consultancy.

Claire is also a regular contributor to national SEND discussions, working alongside policymakers, educational
organisations, and media platforms to champion the rights of children and young people with additional needs. Her
work is driven by a commitment to ensuring that every child receives the support, opportunities, and provision they
need to thrive.She is passionate about bridging the gap between policy and practice, empowering school leaders, supporting
families, and helping create genuinely inclusive educational environments.