SEND children have the right to be educated in their local school. This was one of the statements made in Every Child Achieving and Thriving report that is driving SEND education reforms. In the coming years, schools will need to develop more inclusive provision, but what does that mean in practice?
Ensuring SEND Children Can Thrive Academically
Research in the report shows that SEND children can achieve better GCSE results and job opportunities when they are educated and supported within their local mainstream school. However, tight budgets and a shortage of specialist staff and facilities mean that many schools have concerns about adequately meeting the universal needs of all pupils.
Proposed changes to EHCPs are also a concern for parents, many of whom have battled to get support for their child or children. Will the switch to Individual Support Plans limit or improve access to provision?
What Actions Are Needed in 2026?
The first point to take from the White Paper on SEND reforms is that this is not an immediate change. It requires legislation to be implemented. As a result, the time scale for implementing reforms is September 2030.
Having said this, there are some actions for schools, SENCos, young people and parents to take before the end of 2030.
SEND Reforms Consultation
Firstly, consultation on the ‘Putting Children & Young People First’ reforms is open until 18 May. If you want to share your thoughts and help to shape how this will be delivered in practice, ensure that you have your say.
Inclusion Strategy
To help secure funds, school leadership teams need to complete an Inclusion Strategy by the end of 2026. This will detail how they will ensure high-quality provision that meets all children’s needs. It requires an assessment of common, predictable needs within their cohort, along with information on current barriers to accessing education within their school for SEND pupils.
A formal template for the schools’ Inclusion Strategy is due to be released by the Department for Education in the Summer term.
Audit of Current Provision
A useful starting point is a SEND audit of the current provision. This is a process of self-evaluation to assess the current quality of provision, staffing and outcomes. It provides an opportunity to check that practices align with the SEND Code of Practice, which includes early identification, participation of parents and pupils in decisions, and improving outcomes through tailored support.
In addition, an audit also informs of gaps in provision, including the shortage of specialist teachers and teaching assistants. This can inform how additional funding could be channelled to provide inclusive education within your school.
Communication with Parents
News of changes to EHCPs and education reforms can be a cause for concern for parents of SEND children. Letting parents know that this is a phased process and nothing will change in the immediate future can help to prevent undue worry.
It can be helpful to let parents know that they can share their thoughts in the consultation. You may also inform them that your school will keep them updated with the process and involve them in key decisions. Reassure them that in the long term, the reforms aim to reduce the paperwork and enable more pupils to access structured support.
How We Can Assist
Our team includes Coral, an experienced SEND consultant. Her practical advice can support SEND audits and gap analysis, upskilling teachers and teaching assistants, and mediation with parents. With a focus on ‘more for less’, we are happy to work collaboratively, offering joined up services for multiple schools in a trust or partnership.
In addition, we specialise in education recruitment and can help you fill temporary or permanent vacancies. Our personal vetting and matching services deliver strong candidates.
Contact us to discuss your requirements and how we can assist.