The overwhelming consensus that change is necessary. Investment and reform are long overdue and desperately needed if we are to turn around the ailing system of support for children with SEND, says Paul Whiteman
Underfunded: Previous governments increased SEND funding, but by nowhere near enough to meet demand. Since 2016, the number of pupils with an Education, Health and Care Plan has increased by more than 80% - Adobe Stock

With the start of a new year comes new hope – something that has been in short supply when it comes to provision for pupils with SEND.

It is no exaggeration to say that nobody is happy with the current system. Most importantly, parents and families feel their children are being let down – despite the best efforts of schools and specialists.

The overwhelming consensus that change is necessary, and the education secretary’s stated determination to tackle the issue, mean there is hope. It is clear, however, that reform and a significant increase in investment will be needed.

Previous governments increased SEND funding, but by nowhere near enough to meet soaring demand fuelled by the introduction of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) in 2014, which raised the age up to which children are entitled to a specified level of statutory support to 25.

Register now, read forever

Thank you for visiting Headteacher Update and reading some of our content for professionals in primary education. Register now for free to get unlimited access to all content.

What's included:

  • Unlimited access to news, best practice articles and podcasts

  • New content and e-bulletins delivered straight to your inbox every Monday

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here