Schools across England are being forced to scale back vital support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), a new poll has indicated. The survey highlights a deepening financial crisis that school leaders believe has been brewing for over a decade, directly impacting the provision for some of the most vulnerable children in the education system.
The findings reveal that a substantial two-fifths of school leaders have had to implement cuts to SEND support. This reduction is largely attributed to the ongoing financial pressures faced by schools, making it increasingly difficult to maintain adequate staffing and resources for pupils requiring additional assistance.
A significant majority of school leaders, 71%, reported a decrease in the number of teaching assistants (TAs) employed in their schools over the past year. TAs play a crucial role in providing one-to-one support, small group interventions, and general classroom assistance, which is particularly beneficial for children with SEND.
Beyond teaching assistants, nearly half (49%) of the surveyed schools have also reduced other essential support staff. These roles can encompass a range of professionals, including pastoral support workers, learning mentors, and administrative staff who contribute to the overall well-being and educational experience of pupils, including those with SEND.
The cumulative effect of these cutbacks raises serious concerns about the ability of schools to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, especially those with SEND. The poll underscores a growing strain on resources within the education sector, prompting calls for greater government funding and a review of how SEND provision is financed and delivered across the country.