Focus In

In this episode of Focus In, host Cameron Mills is joined by Dr Jonathan Waddington to explore what it really means to receive a diagnosis of Cerebral Vision Impairment, often known as CVI.CVI is one of the most common causes of vision impairment in children, yet it is still widely misunderstood. In this conversation, Cameron and Dr Waddington discuss how CVI affects visual processing, how it differs from ocular conditions, and what families and professionals need to know when navigating concerns about a child’s vision.The episode provides clear, practical insight for parent carers, educators and professionals supporting children with additional needs.Topics covered include:What CVI is and how it affects the way the brain processes visual informationHow common CVI is among children with vision impairmentWhen parents or professionals might first notice signs that something is not typicalMedical conditions and disabilities that are often associated with CVIEarly indicators that may suggest a child has CVIThe first steps to take if CVI is suspectedWhat the diagnostic process involvesHow long a diagnosis can takeWhat typically happens once a diagnosis is madeThe practical and emotional impact of a CVI diagnosis on a child and their familyWhat support is available following diagnosisPractical day to day strategies parents and carers can use at homeHow schools and education settings can adapt to better support children with CVIWhat the future might look like for a child growing up with CVIThis episode aims to bring clarity and reassurance to families who may be at the beginning of their journey, as well as to professionals who want to deepen their understanding of CVI and how best to respond.

Vision impairment is often overlooked in specialist education - yet it can fundamentally shape how a young person learns, communicates, and connects with the world.In this first episode of Focus In, we explore why understanding vision impairment is essential when supporting learners with complex and multiple needs.In this episode, Cameron speaks with Nic Smith, Deputy Head of InFocus College, to explore the realities of vision impairment in specialist schools and colleges, and the difference that informed, specialist support can make. The discussion covers the wide range of vision impairments commonly seen in specialist settings, alongside the day-to-day challenges learners may face when vision impairment intersects with other disabilities.We explore how vision impairment can affect not only learning and access to the curriculum, but also social development, independence, confidence, and emotional wellbeing. The conversation considers where vision impairment fits when a learner has multiple or complex needs - particularly when other needs may appear more visible or urgent.The episode highlights the value of specialist VI knowledge and input, sharing practical ways education settings can adapt environments, teaching approaches, and communication methods to better support learners with vision impairment. We also discuss the role of assistive technology and the tools that are currently making a meaningful difference for students.For parents and carers, we talk through what to look for when choosing a specialist school or college for a child with vision impairment and additional needs, and how settings like InFocus College are designed to provide the right level of expertise, flexibility, and holistic support.Finally, we share real-world examples of how the right support can help learners with vision impairment thrive, along with practical advice for teachers and support staff who are new to working with students with VI.For more information on InFocus College