NEWS

A Positive Step Forward for SEND Support in Education

3 min read
Children playing

More children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are set to thrive in their local nursery, school or college, following the government’s announcement of the most ambitious and comprehensive SEND training programme ever introduced across the English education system. 

Shaped directly by feedback from parents through the national conversation on SEND, the new approach aims to ensure that every teacher feels confident, well-trained and knowledgeable on how to support a wide range of needs. It is a significant step towards creating learning environments where every child feels included, supported and able to reach their potential whatever their level of need. 

It has been documented that for too long, SEND training and professional development has been inconsistent. Nearly half of primary and secondary teachers have said that further training would improve their confidence when supporting pupils with SEND. This reform addresses that gap, giving families reassurance that their child can be supported effectively within their local setting. 

Backed by £200 million of funding, the new training offer will be available to all teaching staff. Courses will deepen understanding of how to adapt teaching approaches to meet diverse needs, including support for visual impairments and speech and language development. There will also be a strong focus on practical strategies that make a real difference inside and outside the classroom, such as the use of assistive technology, communication tools, creating adapted classroom spaces and playgrounds as well as increasing awareness of additional needs across the whole school community. 

A key part of the reform is a new expectation within the SEND Code of Practice, confirming that all staff in every nursery, school and college should receive training in SEND and inclusion. This ensures a consistent approach nationwide and recognises that inclusion is a shared responsibility across the whole workforce. 

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson highlighted the importance of this investment, stating that every child, regardless of background or need, deserves the opportunity to attend their local school and thrive. By equipping staff with the right knowledge and confidence, the government aims to make inclusive practice the norm rather than the exception. 

This announcement builds on wider investment into inclusive education, including £3 billion to create around 50,000 additional inclusive places in mainstream schools, alongside £740 million already invested in specialist provision. Together, these initiatives focus on creating environments where children feel safe, welcomed and understood, supporting improved attendance, wellbeing and outcomes.

Experts across the sector have welcomed the move. Tom Rees, Chair of the Expert Advisory Group on Inclusion, highlighted the importance of building confidence and expertise across the entire school workforce. He also welcomed the inclusion of teaching assistants and support staff, recognising their vital role in supporting children with SEND every day.

The new training offer will support children from their earliest years through to age 25, helping to rebuild parents’ confidence that support will be there at every stage of education. Delivered flexibly to fit around busy school schedules, the courses will focus on practical skills, effective collaboration with families, and early, targeted support.

An inclusive sensory playground for St Rose's School
Roundabout

Importantly, the programme also fills a long-standing gap for experienced teachers and leaders who want to continue developing their inclusive practice. From next year, flexible online learning and in-person sessions will allow staff to build their skills without adding unnecessary pressure.

Additional elements of the package include:

  • High-quality training materials developed with experts and shared with schools and colleges for in-house learning
  • Dedicated investment in SEND training for teaching assistants and support staff
  • A new Early Years CPD programme, offering free and accessible training focused on inclusive practice, child development and practical strategies

Leaders from colleges and early years settings have also praised the announcement, recognising its potential to strengthen inclusive practice across all phases of education and support the professionals who work so closely with children and families.

At Phoenix Play, we know that inclusion is about more than training alone. It is about creating environments, indoors and outdoors, where every child’s potential can be unlocked. Nurturing confidence, independence and an ability to play, learn and grow together is crucial. This renewed focus on SEND training is a positive step towards a more inclusive education system for all. 

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