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Bridget Phillipson outlines major SEND reforms
The Education Secretary has unveiled sweeping plans to reform England’s Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system, pledging to tackle long waiting times, spiralling costs and what she described as a “postcode lottery” in support for children.
Bridget Phillipson said the current system is “not delivering for families”, with too many parents forced into lengthy legal battles to secure Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) for their children. The reforms aim to provide earlier intervention, clearer accountability for councils and more consistent standards nationwide.
What are the key changes?
1. Earlier identification and support
The Government plans to strengthen early years screening and primary school assessments so that needs are identified sooner. Ministers argue that earlier help will reduce pressure on specialist placements later.
2. EHCP overhaul
EHCPs, which legally guarantee support for children with complex needs, will be reviewed to streamline the application process. The aim is to cut waiting times and reduce tribunal disputes between parents and local authorities.
3. More inclusive mainstream schools
Schools will receive additional guidance and targeted funding to improve in-class support, making mainstream settings better equipped to meet a wider range of needs. This includes staff training and access to specialist teams.
4. Greater accountability for councils
Local authorities facing major SEND deficits will be required to produce recovery plans. The Government says it wants to ensure funding is spent effectively and transparently.
Why reform is being pushed now
Demand for SEND support has risen sharply in recent years. The number of pupils with EHCPs has reached record levels, placing financial strain on councils and creating backlogs in assessments.
Parents’ groups have long complained of delays, inconsistent provision and adversarial processes. Many families report waiting months — sometimes years — for appropriate support.
Reaction
Campaigners cautiously welcomed the promise of earlier intervention but warned that reform must not reduce children’s legal protections. Some fear that changes to EHCP processes could make it harder for families to secure statutory support.
Teaching unions have said that without significant new funding, mainstream schools will struggle to meet expectations.
What happens next?
The Department for Education is expected to launch consultations before detailed legislation is introduced. Ministers say reforms will focus on restoring trust in the system while ensuring sustainability for local authorities.
The debate over SEND reform is likely to intensify in the coming months, as families, schools and councils weigh the impact of changes on some of England’s most vulnerable pupils.
Attached is a news artcle regarding education sec on send reform
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