Special educational needs system to be overhauled in England
BBC World
February 23, 2026
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The UK government has announced a significant overhaul of England’s special educational needs (SEN) system, which will significantly impact how support is provided to children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). Starting from 2035, only children with the most complex needs will be eligible for Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs), while all other pupils with SEND will receive support through a new Individual Support Plan (ISP) created by schools in collaboration with parents. The government has committed £4 billion over three years to make mainstream schools more inclusive, including funding for specialist teachers and therapists. However, this announcement has sparked concerns from education unions, who argue that the proposed changes lack sufficient funding and could place undue pressure on schools already stretched by rising demand for EHCPs.
Under the new system, children currently receiving EHCPs will retain their plans until they complete their current educational phase, after which their support entitlements will be reassessed starting in September 2029. This phased approach aims to ensure a smoother transition for pupils and schools. The government claims the reforms will make mainstream education more inclusive and improve outcomes for children with SEND, while addressing long-standing issues of exclusion and limited access to support. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized that the new system would reduce the bureaucratic battles parents often face to secure appropriate support for their children.
The changes are part of a broader Schools White Paper, which includes measures to tackle teacher recruitment, improve attendance rates, and address disparities in educational outcomes. However, experts warn that the government must address
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/23/2026