Schools forced to cut back on support for Send pupils in England, poll finds
Summary
Many schools in England have reduced support for children with special educational needs because of long-term financial problems. School leaders warn that cuts will likely continue, even though the government wants to improve support for these children.Key Facts
- 40% of school leaders in England have cut support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
- 71% of school leaders reduced teaching assistants in the past year.
- 49% cut other support staff, and 81% expect more cuts ahead.
- SEND cuts are worse in primary schools (45%) than in secondary schools (25%).
- Many schools have also reduced subject choices, IT equipment, trips, and extracurricular activities.
- 86% of school leaders say the pupil premium (extra money for disadvantaged children) is not enough.
- Despite more overall funding, many schools use this extra money to cover other budget gaps.
- Experts say cuts make it hard for schools to meet government goals to better support SEND pupils.
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