The UK government has unveiled significant changes to the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) framework in England, aiming to create a more inclusive educational environment. By 2035, only children with the most complex needs will qualify for education, health, and care plans (EHCPs). Current beneficiaries will retain their plans until at least September 2029, when reassessments will begin following key educational milestones.
New Eligibility Criteria for EHCPs
Under the proposed reforms, the government is narrowing the criteria for EHCPs, which are essential legal documents detailing the specific support required by children with SEND. This decision comes in response to the increasing demand for such plans and the escalating costs associated with the current system, which has faced criticism for being ineffective and unsustainable.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson expressed optimism about the new framework, stating that it aims to simplify access to support for families. “This plan will take away that fight that so many parents have had over such a long period to get the support that should be much more readily available to their children,” she remarked during a visit to a school in Peterborough. The initiative also aims to shift perceptions of SEND students from being sidelined to becoming fully included in mainstream education.
Introduction of Individual Support Plans
The forthcoming changes will see the introduction of Individual Support Plans (ISPs) for all students with SEND. These plans will be crafted by schools in collaboration with parents and will specify the needs of each child along with the support they will receive. The ISPs will categorise support into three tiers: “targeted”, “targeted plus”, and “specialist”. Only students receiving specialist support will be eligible for an EHCP, marking a significant shift in how educational needs are assessed and supported.
This new structure aims to ensure that all children with SEND receive tailored assistance that corresponds to their needs, streamlining the support process and ideally reducing parental stress in navigating the educational landscape.
Funding and Resources Remain a Concern
The government has committed £4 billion over the next three years to enhance the inclusivity of mainstream schools, which includes £1.6 billion directed to schools and early years settings, alongside £1.8 billion for improving access to specialist educators, such as speech and language therapists. However, concerns have been raised regarding the sufficiency of this funding. The National Education Union has cautioned that without additional resources, the expectations placed on schools may be unrealistic.
Critics, including Luke Sibieta from the Institute for Fiscal Studies, warn that while the government is attempting to bolster SEND provisions, the existing system’s financial pressures are already substantial and growing. The Office for Budget Responsibility has forecasted a £6 billion gap between government funding and actual SEND expenditure by 2028-2029, raising questions about the long-term viability of these reforms without a clear funding strategy.
Reactions from Education Professionals
Responses from teaching unions have been mixed. While there is broad support for the intention to reform the SEND system, many leaders emphasise the need for adequate funding and resources to implement these changes effectively. Daniel Kebede, general secretary of the National Education Union, stated that the funding announced is “not enough,” echoing sentiments that the measures may fall short without substantial financial backing.
Laura Trott, the Conservative shadow education secretary, echoed these concerns, highlighting the lack of clarity regarding funding and support structures within the new plan. Liberal Democrats education spokesperson Munira Wilson acknowledged the government’s efforts but cautioned that the effectiveness of the reforms will depend on the details yet to be clarified.
Why it Matters
The proposed overhaul of the SEND framework in England represents a pivotal moment in addressing the educational needs of countless children. By focusing on inclusivity and streamlining support processes, the government aims to ensure that all students receive the attention and resources they require to thrive. However, the success of these reforms hinges on the government’s ability to address funding gaps and provide schools with the necessary tools and support. As these changes unfold, the impact on children with SEND and their families will be closely monitored, with the potential to reshape the educational landscape for years to come.
