Sensory Integration Education

As 2024 draws to an end, it’s often customary at this time of year to reflect on key moments and milestones of the past 12 months. For SIE this year has been particularly special as we celebrated 30 years of being Sensory Integration Education!

Three decades ago, we began as a group of dedicated therapists, driven by a shared passion for enhancing the lives of those with sensory differences. Today, we stand as a committed leader, having trained professionals in almost 150 countries and supporting countless individuals and families through the transformative power of a sensory-informed approach.

So before we close the door on 2024, we wanted to take this opportunity to share with you some of the key highlights of our milestone birthday year:

Sensory Help Now: At the beginning of the year, our Sensory Help Now service became completely free for parents and carers to access. This landmark move means that families and carers of children with sensory integration and processing differences can now freely access advice and information from experienced Sensory Integration Practitioners - all of whom are either qualified Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, or Speech and Language Therapists.

Launch of Sensory Inclusive Schools: In March 2024, we launched Sensory Inclusive Schools (SIS) to foster inclusive learning environments for students with diverse sensory needs. SIS provides schools with training and ongoing support from sensory integration-trained therapists. With 1 in 6 children having sensory processing differences that impact their learning and enjoyment of school, our goal is to equip school staff with the knowledge, tools and resources to create sensory-inclusive environments that help to improve educational outcomes among students with sensory challenges.

Sponsors of RCOT Annual Conference: In June 2024, we virtually attended RCOT’s annual conference as sponsors. Our resident OTs and Advanced SI Practitioners Dr Lelanie Brewer and Beth Smithson presented a session entitled ‘Empowering Meaningful Occupation Through Sensory Integration in Action.’ Featuring SI practitioners sharing real-life case studies across different age groups, their presentation highlighted how the practitioners' knowledge and understanding of sensory integration and processing informed their assessments and interventions, ultimately improving the quality of life for the people they were working with.

Awarded 25 SIE Honorary Fellowships: In the summer and in recognition of SIE’s 30th Birthday, we were thrilled to announce 25 Honorary Fellowships. These Fellowships were awarded by SIE to individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement and awareness of sensory integration education, practice and training. We wanted to take the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the work and achievements of these aspirational individuals who will hopefully inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps. We also have a number of our SIE Fellows hosting live webinars and Sensory Spotlight Talks in 2025. The full programme can be viewed here. 

Over 6500 Visitors Attended This Year's SIE Virtual Conference: In September we ran our annual online Conference where the theme this year was ‘Sensory Informed Practice: Broadening Horizons’. Featuring an inspiring line-up of speakers, the conference included presentations highlighting the latest thinking on assessing sensory integration and processing as well as exploring sensory-friendly environments and sensory strategies across a number of diverse settings – from schools, care homes and hospitals to forensic services and dedicated sensory clinic spaces.

Launch of the National Sensory Network: September also saw the launch of the National Sensory Network (NSN) – a dedicated platform designed to support individuals interested in sensory integration and processing. SIE are proud to host and manage the National Sensory Network as part of our ongoing commitment to raising awareness and understanding of sensory integration and processing. At the heart of the NSN is our mission to enhance sensory awareness and promote best practices across diverse environments. So whether you're an Allied Health Professional, educator, mental health professional, or involved in supporting individuals with sensory processing differences, this network is a hub for knowledge, resources, and collaboration.

Over 220 SIE Students Awarded Their PGCert, PGDip and MSc Degrees: In November we were delighted to see SIE students graduate as SI and Advanced SI Practitioners at the graduation ceremony which took place at Sheffield Hallam University, our Higher Education Partner. The SIE Postgraduate Programme combines online learning with live online support sessions, allowing students to study at their own convenience.

Bringing a Sensory Perspective to the OT Show: Also in November, SIE’s Beth Smithson took to the stage at the OT Show to present ‘A Dynamic Choreography: Sensory Regulation’. Presenting to a packed room on both days, Beth’s presentation focused on the relationship between our central nervous system and the environments around us. Likening ourselves to dancers performing the beautiful dance of sensory regulation, Beth explored the role of the OT as the steady partner in this dance – providing coping strategies when someone’s sensory systems become overwhelmed and helping to guide them back into the rhythm of life’s dance.

Finally, a hearfelt thank you to all of you for being part of the journey with us and for your continued support and dedication to advancing sensory integration. Together we will continue to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Wishing you all a Happy and Healthy 2025!

PS As we bid a fond farewell to 2024 and look forward to what 2025 has in store for us, don’t miss out on our New Year Gift to you! Click here to find out more.