Devon backs positive step in Government’s new SEND reform plans
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
A senior councillor at Devon County Council has welcomed the Government’s new plans to reform support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), describing them as an important move forward for families.
Councillor Denise Bickley, the council’s cabinet member for SEND, was responding to the publication of the Government’s education and SEND white paper, Every Child Achieving and Thriving.
She said: “The publication of this white paper is a positive step.
“It clearly recognises the pressures facing the SEND system and the need to improve outcomes for children and young people.
“The focus on earlier intervention is welcome.
“Supporting children sooner can make a real difference to their lives and reduce the need for more intensive support later on.”
The white paper sets out plans to improve outcomes for children and young people, including those with SEND and their families. Proposals include prioritising earlier support, introducing clearer national standards, strengthening partnership working across education, health and care services, and increasing inclusion within mainstream education.
Cllr Bickley said councils have long called for these priorities and are ready to play their part in delivering change.
She said: “Clearer national standards and stronger joint working between education, health and care services are also important.
“Families need greater consistency and confidence, wherever they live.
“The white paper’s commitment to inclusion and workforce growth, including recruiting more teachers, is encouraging.
“These are essential foundations for a stronger system.
“Teachers need to be allowed to teach – and be respected for the knowledge and experience they bring to their role.
“Teaching assistants need to be recognised for the vital role they play in schools.
“We will see how the white paper, as it moves through consultation, addresses this.”
She also highlighted concerns raised by schools and parents around funding and class sizes.
Cllr Bickley said: “There is an obvious desire from schools and families for smaller class sizes and parents will want reassurance that funding will be sufficient to allow this – although if schools are given the tools to pool funding and work collaboratively, as laid out in the plans, this may well free up funding for complete reorganisation and innovative planning.”
The Government’s proposals will now go through consultation before any changes are introduced.
( Photo: Denise Buckley / YouTube 📸 )