Official figures show a 11.6% rise in children with Education, Health and Care plans (EHCPs) in England, reaching a record 538,500. Overall, 21% of pupils now have special educational needs, prompting calls for urgent government action amid funding and staffing challenges.
Declining birth rates in England are causing school closures, with nearly 30% of pupils in closed schools having special educational needs (SEN), compared to 20% nationally. This trend disproportionately impacts SEN students, raising concerns about future provision and support.
Headteachers warn UK government's special educational needs reforms could fail due to policies prioritizing exam results over inclusion. Concerns include "academic attainment at all costs" and inadequate support for mainstream schools.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer outlines his legislative agenda for the new parliamentary session, including reforms to NHS, education, housing, and immigration, amidst speculation of a potential leadership challenge.
Labour's King's Speech unveils bills to reset EU relations, nationalise British Steel, reform NHS, education, housing, and immigration, amidst potential backlash from Labour MPs on asylum measures.
A poll indicates that two-fifths of school leaders in England are cutting support for children with special educational needs due to a long-standing financial crisis. Many are reducing teaching assistants and support staff, with further cuts anticipated.
