Education Secretary arrives in Peterborough to unveil £4 billion plan for special education needs
Government plans to reform rights for children with special educational needs and disabilities were unveiled today (February 24) at a conference in Peterborough.
Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson visited Ormiston Bushfield Academy, Ortongate, Orton Goldhay, to outline her £4 billion plan to end what she said was the one size fits all education system that has ‘traumatised’ many families.
She told education and civic leaders: “I believe – and this government believes – that background shouldn’t mean destiny.
"How a child grows up shouldn’t dictate where they end up.
“The SEND system designed 10 years ago for a small number of children is now broken.
"Parents end up fighting tooth and nail for entitlements on paper that don’t see them getting additional support.
"Children’s educations and lives have suffered.
She added: “Today’s plans will take children with SEND from sidelined and excluded to seen, heard and included.
"Every child will get the brilliant support they deserve, when they need it, as routine and without a fight.”
Ms Phillipson said the new Schools White Paper, which includes investment over the next three years to make schools inclusive for students with additional needs and to better support children with SEND, would mean that every child with additional needs would benefit from better and more tailored support.
Afterwards, Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes said: “It was great that Peterborough was chosen for the launch of today’s national education plan.
"Our school are on the up, with improved standards, and we are at the forefront of expanding Family Hubs.
“Too many parents and school staff know the frustration from a broken SEND system, so today’s investment will be welcome.
He said: “I have been pushing for changes to SEND since my election.
"Failures to support children with SEND is one the biggest issues in my inbox.
"Over the last year, I have met parents, teachers and students, as well as held workshops all to get a better understanding of what matters locally and to put Peterborough’s voice on the national stage.
"And the message has been clear.
"The current SEND system is broken. Families want the right help and support available where and when they need it, and without having to wait months or even years for an EHCP to get it.”