Schools Balancing Basic Needs with SEND Provision - 24th Oct 2024
New research from education charity Teach First reveals that schools, particularly in disadvantaged areas, are increasingly using their core budgets to provide essential support for pupils, affecting their capacity to deliver specialist educational services.
"More than two-fifths of schools report that disadvantaged pupils are not receiving adequate support. Three quarters report that pupils with special educational needs (SEN) are not receiving adequate support. This jumps to 85% for primary schools."
The study shows this crisis is particularly acute in disadvantaged areas, where schools are having to use their budgets for:
- Additional food for hungry pupils (60%)
- School uniforms and clothing (68%)
- Absentee interventions (38%)
- One-third of schools report being unable to afford new teaching staff, directly impacting their ability to provide specialist support.
Supporting schools through financial challenges
At OnLineTraining, we understand the significant budgetary pressures schools are facing. That's why we work flexibly with schools to provide cost-effective professional development solutions that maximise their available resources. Our courses can be tailored to focus on the most pressing needs within your setting, ensuring you get the most value from your professional development investment.
Through our flexible online delivery model and targeted content, we help schools build internal capacity and expertise in SEN support, providing practical strategies that can be implemented immediately within existing resources.
We continue to work alongside schools and teachers through our professional development programmes, supporting them in delivering effective SEN provision while being mindful of budgetary constraints.
Find out more:
Read the full Teach First report
Explore our flexible training options for Local Authorities and Schools