Kara Smallman - Inclusive Leader, SEND Specialist, Creative Thinker

With over 20 years in education, Kara brings a rare blend of strategic leadership, specialist expertise, and creative insight. Kara is a qualified teacher with a combined BA Hons Media and Popular Culture with English, a PGCE and NPQH. Her career spans roles as a SEND teacher across the Key Stages, Behaviour Lead and Specialist, and Head of School—each marked by a deep commitment to inclusive practice and pupil wellbeing.

Kara has led schools through challenging transitions, driving improvement through clarity, empathy, and evidence-based strategies. Her leadership is rooted in relationship-building, staff development, and a belief in every child’s potential. She’s known for cascading behaviour support skills through coaching and CPD, embedding restorative approaches, and using data to inform practice. Talking the talk and walking the walk.

Kara understands the needs of both educators and families to work together. She understands the fight that families have to be heard and for the specialist support their child desperately needs. She also understands that schools may struggle with this specialist support. Yet with the right support and skills for student, school and family, lives become easier and less stressed. Her understanding of the EHCP processes ensures tailored provision for pupils with a range of additional needs.

Her curriculum redevelopment work reflects her ability to balance structure with creativity with adaptation for purpose at the heart of learning. Kara also brings a sharp eye for branding and design, crafting professional visuals that communicate purpose and identity.

Whether mentoring staff, supporting families, or designing outreach services, Kara leads with authenticity, precision, and a quiet confidence that inspires trust.