Overview

This bill aims to improve support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in England. It mandates increased teacher training, influences school inspections to prioritize SEND considerations, and introduces safeguards against the inappropriate permanent exclusion of SEND pupils.

Description

The bill introduces several key changes:

Teacher Training and Expertise

Local authorities must ensure all school staff receive sufficient SEND training. They must also publish strategies detailing how they'll provide necessary educational support for SEND pupils. The Secretary of State can set training standards and specify strategy content, including mandatory training for Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs).

School Inspections

School inspections will explicitly assess how well schools meet the needs of SEND children and their compliance with relevant statutory requirements. Definitions for "disabled" and "special educational needs" are clarified to align with existing legislation.

Permanent Exclusion

The bill prevents the permanent exclusion of SEND pupils unless a review of appropriate support (reasonable adjustments for disabled pupils and special educational provision for pupils with SEND) has been conducted by the school.

Definitions

The bill clarifies the definition of "autism" to include all autism spectrum disorders, and defines "disability" and "special educational needs" in line with existing legislation.

Government Spending

The bill will lead to increased government expenditure. The exact figures are not specified in the bill text but will cover the costs incurred by the Secretary of State in implementing the bill's provisions and any resulting increases in spending under other Acts.

Groups Affected

• Local Authorities: Responsible for ensuring sufficient teacher training and publishing support strategies; potentially increased financial burden.
• Schools: Required to implement the new training standards and review processes before permanently excluding SEND pupils; potential impact on resources and staffing.
• Teachers and Support Staff: Required to undertake additional SEND training; potential for career development and improved skills.
• Pupils with SEND: Intended to benefit from improved training, support, and safeguards against inappropriate exclusion; potential for better educational outcomes.
• Parents of Pupils with SEND: May see improvements in their children's education and inclusion; potential for greater involvement in the review process for permanent exclusions.

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