Tanya Kent

I am a nationally recognised leader in education mental health and inclusion, with over a decade of experience across mainstream, specialist (SEND), and alternative provision. I specialise in designing, implementing, and quality assuring whole school mental health and wellbeing strategies that strengthen safeguarding and embed inclusive cultures.

I translate policy into practice through trauma informed, evidence informed implementation. I build psychologically safe environments and empower schools and trusts to deliver outstanding outcomes for all learners—especially those facing disadvantage and under representation.

In my current role as Education Mental Health Programme Manager (Innovating Minds), I lead national strategic development and delivery of whole school mental health approaches, supporting over 400 schools across the UK and internationally. I provide director level consultation to senior leaders, multi academy trusts, and multi agency partners, guiding sustainable frameworks and driving meaningful system level change through needs analysis, service mapping, and self assessment audits.

Previously, as Senior Mental Health Lead at The Shepwell School (PRU & Autism Specialist Provision), I led whole school systems for some of the most vulnerable learners. I embedded trauma informed and relational practice, developed safeguarding- and SEND-aligned policies and intervention pathways, and collaborated with CAMHS/ICAMHS clinicians to support early identification and continuity of care.