New strategy for special needs pupils proposed

Pupils with special educational needs in England will have access to more personalised learning as part of a new long-term strategy published today.

The new strategy, 'Removing Barriers to Achievement', aims to focus on early intervention and support. It proposes personalised learning for all pupils and improving teachers' skills to meet the diverse range of educational needs.

Under the plans, more children would be taught in mainstream schools. Special schools would become centres of excellence - working closely with mainstream schools to share expertise. Special schools would continue educating children with the most severe and complex needs.

Nearly one child in six is considered to have special educational needs (SEN), the government said.

Launching the new strategy, Education Secretary Charles Clarke said the government was "determined to grasp the opportunity" to transform the experience of SEN pupils.

"All children have the right to the best possible education, the opportunity to fulfil their potential and play a full part in the life of their school and their community," he said.

"However there is too much variation in provision for children with SEN in different parts of the country."

Closer partnerships between education, health and social services and the voluntary sector are also proposed in the strategy.

"This situation where children still face real barriers to learning and parents lack confidence in the commitment and capacity of our schools to meet their child's needs cannot be allowed to continue," said Mr Clarke.

(gmcg)