Posted on Monday 15th Apr 2019
Large funding shortfalls for special educational needs in schools are causing "untold misery" for thousands of families, a teaching union says.
National Education Union analysis found spending was not keeping pace with rapidly increasing demand in nearly all (93%) of England's local councils.
It said between 2015 and 2018, the number of special needs care plans grew 33%, while funding rose only 6%.
The government says it is investing an extra £100m in special needs places.
The NEU released its analysis of official figures at its annual conference in Liverpool where it will debate the issue.
It said nearly two-thirds of England's local councils are spending less per pupil with complex needs than they were three years ago, in real terms.
Can't find what you are looking for?
Don't worry, please call us anyway to discuss your ideal job.
Latest News
02/09/25School to expand on land earmarked for graveyard
A number of schools in Kent are set to expand, including one on to land previously reserved for a graveyard, in an effort to meet growing demand for school places.
14/07/25AI revolution to give teachers more time with pupils
Pupils across England will benefit from more face-to-face time with teachers as the government forges ahead with plans to harness the power of AI to deliver educational excellence.
08/07/25Children with special needs will 'always' have 'legal right' to support, education secretary says
Bridget Phillipson seeks to dampen a looming row over whether the government could scrap tailored plans for children with special needs - as some Labour MPs fear a repeat of the welfare row.
07/07/25Government urged to keep education plans for children with special needs
Ministers are facing calls to not cut education plans for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (Send). Campaigners say education, health and care plans (EHCPs) are "precious legal protections", warning that thousands of children could lose access to education if the plans are abolished.
26/06/25Councils face millions in extra Send costs as overhaul delayed
Cash-strapped councils in England will be hit with hundreds of millions of pounds in extra costs after the government delayed tackling the £5bn deficits spent supporting children and young people with special needs and disabilities.
News Archive