'Effective' SEND support won't be taken away, minister says
BBC World
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The UK Education Secretary has announced that SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) support will not be removed under planned reforms, though there will be changes in how it is delivered. The government’s proposed modifications aim to ensure children’s needs are more closely reviewed and tailored to their progress. This shift emphasizes a stronger focus on outcomes and regular assessments, with plans for annual reviews and updated support plans based on evaluations of each child’s development.
Under the new framework, schools will be required to conduct detailed analyses of students’ needs, ensuring that interventions are effective and aligned with their specific requirements. Parents can expect greater involvement in these review processes, as they will have access to more detailed reports outlining their child’s progress and any necessary adjustments to support plans. The reforms also aim to streamline communication between schools, local authorities, and healthcare providers to create a more cohesive system for supporting children with SEND.
These changes come amid growing concerns about the adequacy of current SEND provision in schools. Advocates argue that the revised approach could lead to better outcomes for children by ensuring more personalized and responsive support. However, some parents have expressed worries about the potential for reduced resource allocation or delays in implementing new systems. The government has emphasized that these reforms are designed to enhance existing support structures rather than dismantle them, with a focus on improving the quality of services provided.
For global readers interested in education policies, this development highlights the ongoing challenges and innovations in special educational needs support. While SEND issues are not unique to the UK, the proposed reforms could serve as a model for other countries seeking to improve their systems. The debate over how best to support children with disabilities remains a critical issue worldwide, with implications for equity, inclusion, and educational outcomes.
Ultimately, while the government has assured that SEND support will not be removed, the emphasis on reviewing and adapting services based on individual needs underscores a broader shift toward outcome-focused interventions. This approach aims to ensure that all children receive the tailored assistance they require to thrive in school and beyond.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/22/2026