New government guidance emphasizes the importance of “time-limited” support for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in mainstream schools. This initiative aims to enhance external assistance, ensuring that health professionals and specialist teachers are readily available to support these students.
Government Support and Funding
The initiative includes a significant financial commitment from the government, which will allocate £1.8 billion to local councils over the next three years. This funding is set to commence in September, enabling councils to act swiftly in developing a supportive framework for pupils with SEND.
Experts at Hand
According to the new guidelines, local authorities must establish an “experts at hand” service. This service will engage a variety of professionals, including:
- Speech and language therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Educational psychologists
- Specialist teachers from special and alternative provision settings
The aim is to provide time-limited expert support that builds the capacity of schools to independently assist SEND pupils.
Targeted Support Models
The guidance also outlines how experts will contribute to individual pupil support, staff development, and systemic changes. Local councils and health bodies are required to publish a detailed local offer, ensuring that students receive:
- Light touch assessments
- Individualized interventions
- Group or whole-class support
Time-limited, highly specific one-to-one support may be offered in particular situations, especially where geographic isolation prevents group interventions.
Embedding Inclusive Practices
Part of the initiative focuses on fostering inclusive practices across educational settings. The experts at hand will provide training, coaching, and observations to help schools adapt their curricula and teaching methods. Local councils are encouraged to create accessible advice routes, such as:
- Helplines
- Drop-in sessions
- Digital platforms
Establishment of the Expert Panel
Furthermore, the Department for Education (DfE) has constituted an expert panel to develop national inclusion standards and specialist provision packages. This framework aims to deliver consistent practices across mainstream education settings and to clarify necessary support for students with education, health, and care plans.
Key members of the expert panel include:
- Dr. Anne Gordon (Health Co-chair)
- Tom Rees (Education Co-chair)
- Alison Stewart
- Professor Susana Castro-Kemp
- Professor Courtenay Norbury
- Katherine Walsh
- Ben Bastin
- Mark Vickers MBE
- James Waller
- Susan Douglas CBE
- Dr. Sue Franklin
- Sarah Clarke
- Professor Karen Guldberg
This new approach reflects a commitment to improving educational outcomes for SEND pupils by providing targeted, expert-driven support while fostering an inclusive learning environment in mainstream schools.
