Dr Hayley Henderson

Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management, University of Northampton

Dr Hayley Henderson is a researcher and educator with a career spanning nearly two decades in higher education. She has held multiple key academic roles and has played a pivotal role in delivering UK HE programmes in partnership with institutions in countries such as China, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and the UAE. An active researcher and published author, Dr Hayley Henderson’s scholarly work spans digital literacy, digital wellbeing and online safety in education. Her publications reflect her interest in the intersections between technology, wellbeing and community engagement. Her multidisciplinary background—grounded in computing, business, and education—equips her to lead with insight, empathy, and innovation. Dr Hayley Henderson is passionate about helping people find balance in our hyper-connected world, guiding them to use technology intentionally rather than letting it take over.

10:00

1 Main programme

Keynote: Keeping Children with SEND safe online: Evidence-based strategies for safer, more inclusive digital experiences

Children with SEND experience unique opportunities and risks in digital spaces. Whilst technology can enhance communication, learning and social interaction, children with SEND can face heightened online risks, including cyberbullying, grooming, and exposure to harmful content. Existing safeguarding strategies often fail to address their specific needs, focusing on risk avoidance rather than empowerment. This keynote will draw upon an evidence-based analysis of the complex intersection of SEND, digital technology and online safety to offer practical recommendations, including how schools can lead on multi-stakeholder approaches to create a safer and more accessible digital world.