The UK government has announced a significant investment of £3 billion to create 50,000 additional places for children with special educational needs (SEND) in mainstream schools. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities for these students across England over the next three years. The funding will be partially sourced from the cancellation of several planned free school projects, reflecting a strategic shift in resource allocation.
Bridget Phillipson, the UK Education Secretary, emphasized that this investment is a crucial step toward implementing SEND reforms outlined in a forthcoming schools White Paper. Originally scheduled for release in autumn 2023, the publication has faced delays. The government plans to halt the construction of 28 new mainstream free schools following consultations, with an additional 16 sites under review. Ms. Phillipson stated, “We have made the decision not to go ahead with some schools where we’ve seen falling rolls because of pupil numbers and investing that money into provision for children with SEND.”
The allocated funds will empower local councils to adapt existing school facilities, creating dedicated spaces for SEND students. This approach aims to reduce the need for long-distance travel for education, allowing children greater access to nearby resources. Potential developments include specialized breakout areas and rooms tailored for students with autism or ADHD, who may find traditional classroom settings overwhelming.
Councillor Amanda Hopgood from the Local Government Association highlighted the importance of location. She warned against building large schools in isolated areas, stating, “If we build a big school in the middle of nowhere that we have to transport everyone to, then that’s money that isn’t used on education.” This sentiment reflects broader concerns about ensuring SEND provisions are accessible within local communities.
The financial commitment comes as local authorities grapple with rising costs associated with transporting SEND students. In the 2023-24 financial year, councils expended approximately £1.5 billion on transport for under-16s with SEND, a stark increase from previous years.
While headteachers’ unions have welcomed the government’s plans, the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) cautioned that investment in infrastructure alone is insufficient. They emphasized the need for qualified educators and specialists to adequately support SEND students. At Ninestiles Academy in Birmingham, nearly 50 students with education, health and care plans (EHCPs) spend about 70% of their time in mainstream lessons, supplemented by bespoke sessions designed to address their unique needs.
The government’s additional funding aims to expedite councils’ ability to meet local demands for SEND places. Yet, Principal Alex Hughes of Ninestiles noted that “the devil will be in the detail” regarding how these changes will directly impact individual schools.
For families like that of Brendan, a 14-year-old student at Ninestiles, this investment holds promise. His mother, Laura Jerram, highlighted the importance of the support Brendan receives, stating, “He has the best of both worlds.” Yet, she acknowledged the challenges faced during Brendan’s journey to secure his EHCP, describing it as a “horrible journey” marked by delays and frustrations.
Concerns regarding the SEND system persist, with the National Audit Office (NAO) reporting that despite increased funding, student outcomes have not improved significantly. In the 2024-2025 school year, the number of parents appealing to councils over SEND provisions reached a record high of 25,000, an 18% increase from the previous year, with many disputes centered on EHCP contents.
As the government moves forward with the cancellation of certain free school projects, a consultation period will follow to gather input on these decisions. While proposals from Eton College for selective sixth-form centers in Dudley and Oldham have been approved, plans for a similar facility in Middlesbrough are set for cancellation.
This investment marks a pivotal moment for SEND education in England, with the potential for significant improvements in accessibility and support for students who require specialized assistance.
