Karen Worthington joins Somerset at a pivotal moment in its SEND improvement journey, bringing a wealth of experience in education, inclusion, and children’s services. She has strong local connections, having most recently led SEND Support provision at Bridgwater & Taunton College before joining the Council, and previously working at Bridgwater College.
Throughout her career, Worthington has been dedicated to enhancing outcomes for children and young people, advocating for inclusion, and fostering sustainable change through collaboration and a focus on impact. In her new role as Head of SEND Reform, she will spearhead Somerset’s ambitious transformation programme.
Her work will involve close collaboration with children, young people, families, schools, colleges, early years settings, health partners, and council services to achieve meaningful and lasting improvements across the SEND system. Key priorities include delivering the SEND Reform Programme and SEND Improvement Plan, improving outcomes and experiences for those with SEND, and strengthening co-production to ensure their voices shape decision-making.
Worthington also aims to support inclusive practices, enhance partnership working across education, health, and care sectors, and build a more responsive and trusted SEND system. She expressed her enthusiasm for the role, highlighting her personal connection to SEND as a parent and grandparent, and her admiration for the commitment of colleagues and partners in Somerset.
“"My ambition is to build on these strengths and work collaboratively with children, young people, families, schools, settings and partners to create a more inclusive system where every child and young person can thrive."
She added, "I am looking forward to listening, learning and working together as we continue Somerset’s improvement journey."
