Today in Education Questions, I challenged the Government on its decision to freeze the High Needs Funding Block that special schools rely on.
A recent report highlighted growing concerns from headteachers that this funding freeze will leave children with special educational needs and disabilities without the support they deserve. At a time when demand for special school places and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) continues to rise, freezing funding simply does not add up.
The Government may point to alternative support schemes, but schools are clear: they do not come close to replacing the funding that has been lost.
Families across Meriden and Solihull East know how vital specialist support is for helping children reach their full potential. Yet the Government's wider SEND reforms remain years away, while schools are being asked to cope with increasing pressures right now.
Children with SEND cannot be expected to wait years for the support they need. The Government must listen to schools, provide the funding required, and ensure every child gets the education and opportunities they deserve.
