This article has been brought to you by Slough Borough Council on behalf of The Children's Commissioner for England, for the attention of all schools.
The Children's Commissioner for England has published a report examining resources, staffing and social challenges in special schools and alternative provision settings. The report draws on responses to the Commissioner's school census from school leaders in these settings. Findings show: concerns around staffing and workforce pressures; systemic barriers are hindering support delivery; and understanding of pupils’ needs remains limited in alternative provisions. The Commissioner is calling for a national framework for special and alternative provision, setting expectations, accountability, and reintegration pathways.
Read the report: “We have the most vulnerable children, but less support” Special and alternative provision sector report: The Children’s Commissioner’s School Census