Group having CPDL training session

Planning INSET Days: Reflections, Resources, and the Rhythm of September

Even though I’ve been out of school roles for two years now, I still find myself thinking about back-to-school preparation as August rolls in. I suppose it’s hard to shake habits formed over thirty years! One of the many things I was involved in planning - and always took seriously - was In-Service Training (INSET). Those precious days carved out for professional development, reflection, and setting the tone for the year ahead.

INSET days were introduced back in 1988 by Education Secretary Ken Baker, giving teachers time for continuing professional development (CPD) beyond the standard 190 teaching days. Schools can choose how to spread them across the year, but in my experience, there’s almost always one in September. And rightly so - it’s a moment to pause, reset, and prepare.

Depending on the setting, INSET might include training, safeguarding updates, curriculum planning, classroom setup, or whole-school briefings. As a SENCO, Deputy Head, Headteacher, and Head of Inclusion, I’ve worn many hats in shaping these days, I’ve always believed that CPD is one of the most powerful tools we have. Teachers are naturally reflective, open to learning, and committed to improving their practice. It’s one of the many things I love about the profession.

But we also know how busy school life is. So, it helps to know what high-quality, evidence-informed CPD is out there - especially when it’s fully funded by the DfE.

SEND Support That’s Ready to Use

Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Alison Parr, Regional SEND Lead for Whole School SEND in the West Midlands. As an ex-Headteacher herself, she was keen to make sure SENCOs weren’t spending time creating resources from scratch when excellent ones already exist.

She developed an interactive planner that walks SENCOs through the school year, highlighting Whole School SEND resources that align with each phase. It’s a brilliant tool for planning September INSET, especially if you’re thinking about:

  • Your school’s SEND vision and ethos
  • Distributed leadership approaches
  • Statutory duties
  • Curriculum adaptation and knowing your learners

Tailored Tools for Every Role

If you’d rather start with resources linked to your specific role, Whole School SEND has created toolkits for:

  • Leaders
  • Teachers
  • Teaching Assistants and Learning Support Staff
  • Those working in co-production and partnership

You can explore them all here.

Not Sure Where to Begin?

Sometimes the best place to start is with a review of current practice. Whole School SEND’s review guides are designed for self-evaluation, peer review, or systems leader review - whatever fits your setting. They’re a great way to take stock and plan CPD that’s truly responsive.

For Teachers, By Teachers

The Teacher Handbook: SEND is another gem - designed to put inclusion at the heart of everyday practice. It’s interactive, practical, and easy to dip in and out of depending on your focus. If you’re planning your own INSET content and not sure where to start, this is a great reference point.

Quick, Impactful CPD Units

And finally, I can’t go without mentioning the Whole School SEND online CPD units. Each one takes under an hour and offers clear guidance on adapting teaching to meet diverse needs. You can assign them by interest or role or complete them as a team and use the learning to spark professional conversations and shape your improvement plans.

A Final Thought

Whatever your training needs this September, let Whole School SEND take some of the strain. The resources are ready to go, evidence-informed, and designed to support inclusive practice across your setting. That way, you can return your focus to what the holiday period is really about - rest, reflection, and maybe even a bit of sunshine!

Alison Betts
National Coordinator, Whole School SEND
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