Frances Akinde is a qualified SENCO, former headteacher of a specialist secondary school for autistic learners, and an experienced SEND inspector and advisor. With over 20 years in education, she has worked across primary, secondary, special/alternative provision, and local authority settings. Her roles have included subject teacher, SLCN advisory teacher, and anti-racist schools coach. A proud neurodivergent educator with a hearing impairment, Frances draws on her lived experience to champion inclusion, allyship, and accessibility in education and the workplace.
She is the author of Be an Ally, Not a Bystander and co-founder of the BAMEed SEND Hub. Frances is also an Assistive Technology Trainer and certified Workplace Adjustments Assessor, helping organisations create inclusive environments through practical support. A passionate speaker and trainer, she offers consultancy, CPD, and student workshops rooted in empathy, action, and systemic change. Her mission is to transform educational culture through equity and authentic allyship.