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
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.
25/06/25Rachel Reeves visits Kent to discuss free school meals and building more schools in county
Chancellor Rachel Reeves discussed the policies on a visit to a Kent school
17/06/25Record 1 in 5 pupils in England getting special education needs support
Nearly one in five pupils in England are receiving support for special educational needs (SEN) in the classroom, according to government statistics. It comes as separate statistics show a sharp rise in the number of tribunals concerning special educational needs support, as parents challenge the support on offer for their child. Teaching unions say systemic change in special educational needs provision is "urgently needed" for schools and students.
10/06/25'I couldn't imagine not teaching full-time - until I had my baby'
Alice returned to work three days a week at Oasis Academy Warndon in April and is on a flexible working arrangement for the next year, which means she can also take Oliver to regular baby group sessions. She believes delivering more flexible working options for teachers - especially those who are new parents - is going to be key to addressing ongoing issues with recruitment and retention in the profession. She wants all new parent teachers to be offered such flexibility, to allow them to "feel confident that taking that step forward in their personal life isn't going to lead to a step back in their professional life".
02/06/25£740 million allocated for 10,000 new places for pupils with SEND
£740 million allocated for 10,000 new places for pupils with SEND New SEND places to create more inclusive classrooms in mainstream schools, delivering on Plan for Change to break down barriers to opportunity. From: Department for Education and The Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson MP Published 27 March 2025
News Archive