Dr André Imich OBE has been appointed Independent Chair of the Devon SEND Strategic Partnership Board, a key role in the county’s ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
His appointment received strong backing from partners across Devon’s SEND system, including schools, health services, and parent representatives, and followed a rigorous selection process that involved interviews with young people. This reflects the county’s renewed focus on co-production, inclusion, and collaborative decision-making.
In his new role, Dr Imich will provide independent oversight and challenge, helping to maintain momentum in the county’s SEND transformation agenda. He brings decades of national leadership experience, having served as the Department for Education’s SEN and Disability Professional Adviser from 2010 to 2024, shaping national SEND policy and advising ministers on improving outcomes for children and young people. He was awarded an OBE in 2022 for his services to children and young people.
Speaking about his appointment, Dr Imich said:
“I am delighted to be taking on the role of Independent Chair of the Devon SEND Partnership Board. With Devon’s local agenda and the national direction both clearly focusing on improved partnership working as the key to improving outcomes for all children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and their families, this is an opportune time for us all to pull together. There is already much good practice across Devon, and the Partnership Board will seek to extend this further.”
Councillor Denise Bickley, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services – SEND, added:
“We are delighted to welcome André to Devon as Independent Chair at this crucial stage in our improvement journey. Devon will benefit greatly from his expertise and leadership as we continue to drive positive change for children, young people, and their families.”
About the Devon SEND Strategic Partnership Board
The Board brings together practitioners from education, health, and social care, alongside representatives for parent carers and young people. It ensures that every child and young person with SEND in Devon receives the right support, at the right time, in the right place.
The Board oversees the delivery of the SEND Transformation Programme, including the Accelerated Progress Plan developed after the 2022 local area SEND inspection. It monitors progress, holds partners to account, and ensures services are joined-up, responsive, and shaped by the voices of families.
