Plans to revamp the struggling special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system have been postponed after being eagerly anticipated. The release of the schools white paper, originally scheduled for this Autumn, has been pushed to next year.
The delay decision, made recently, follows Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson’s speech on the white paper just last week. Concerns have arisen in recent months that Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs), which provide legal SEND support, might be eliminated as part of the white paper.
In response, parents, campaigners, and young individuals gathered at Parliament Square last month to urge the Government not to proceed with the potential EHCP changes, citing existing low confidence in the system. Ministers have opted to postpone the white paper release to avoid backlash and continue working towards consensus with families and experts.
Additionally, ministers were apprehensive that linking the upcoming Budget announcement with reform initiatives could be misconstrued as a cost-saving measure. Despite the urgency of the situation, the decision to delay may come as a surprise. The Labour party expressed support for taking the necessary time to address SEND challenges effectively.
Cllr Amanda Hopgood, chair of the LGA’s Children, Young People and Families Committee, expressed disappointment over the delay, emphasizing the urgent need for reform due to the system’s current shortcomings. The Department for Education spokesperson highlighted the importance of engaging with parents, teachers, and experts nationwide to ensure that proposed solutions are informed by real experiences and collaboration.
The Department plans to conduct listening sessions across the country in the coming months to test policy options and hold regular meetings with parent and expert groups.