A debate in the House of Commons on SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Funding and provision gave an opportunity to highlight the issues facing local schools and pupils.
Many colleagues had already highlighted points around funding, so given the limited time left Kevin focused on some of the issues raised by local schools and Torbay Council’s Children’s Services Team. These included waiting times for a diagnosis with the NHS for conditions such as autism, how the current funding for SEND interacts with a 90% attendance target to receive it (Given the disabilities of some pupils being supported), future funding for family hubs and what knowledge of (and training for) SEND issues we expect across all teaching staff.
During the debate Kevin took the chance to thank the team at Barton Hill Academy for the work they do supporting pupils with SEND needs.
