SEND pupils 'at heart' of improvement plan

Children in classImage source, PA Media
Image caption,

The plan was co-produced with feedback from families and children

At a glance

  • The plan aims to address the “widespread” failings and “significant concerns” raised by inspectors in Plymouth

  • It was co-produced with feedback from children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and their families

  • The plan will be overseen by a new Plymouth SEND Improvement Board, chaired by an external expert

  • Another inspection is due within 18 months

  • Published

A plan to improve care and support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in Plymouth has been agreed following a critical report.

Inspectors found "widespread" failings and "significant concerns" , externalabout the experiences of some students.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) and Ofsted, which inspected the service in June, said the local SEND partnership must address the problems "urgently".

Sally Cresswell, Plymouth City Council's cabinet member for education, skills and apprenticeships, said children and young people were "at the very heart of this plan and their voices will be listened to as we set out to deliver these improvements".

Inspectors said in their report in August that too many SEND pupils had "long-term placements in alternative provision where it was not in their best interests, rather than being offered specialist provision or being supported to stay in their own school".

It added that too many did "not get the necessary help to succeed in secondary school" and those in Plymouth were also more likely to be permanently excluded than those nationally.

A plan to tackle the problems has been co-produced by the council, local NHS organisations and school and college leaders, with feedback from SEND children and their families.

The authority said it set out "clear priorities and actions to ensure that children and young people with SEND receive the best education, care and support possible".

These include:

  • Ensuring there is clear oversight of the impact of the partnership on children, young people and their families

  • Quickly identifying children and young people who are vulnerable and risk negative outcomes

  • Reducing the likelihood of pupils with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) being excluded from school

  • Addressing long waiting times for children and young people who need support from health services

Support 'absolutely crucial'

A new, externally-chaired Plymouth SEND Improvement Board will oversee accountability for delivering the actions set out in the plan.

Ms Cresswell said: "Our priority is for all children and young people in Plymouth to be supported to grow up well and to achieve and thrive.

"It is absolutely crucial that those with special educational needs receive additional support so that they too reach their full potential."

Nigel Acheson, chief medical officer for NHS Devon, said the plan set out goals and how to meet them.

"Children and young people have helped shape the plans and we will continue to make sure their [voices are] heard as this work gathers momentum."

Another inspection is due within 18 months.

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