Why there is a growing need for SEND support and collaboration in mainstream settings
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the growing need for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support in mainstream schools is undeniable. With more pupils identified with SEND than ever before, and an increasing number of pupils with Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCP), it’s clear that the current system is reaching a crisis point.
In fact, as of 2023-2024, 1.7 million pupils in schools across England are identified with SEND, with an 11% rise in the number of pupils with EHCPs.
What does this mean for mainstream schools? There may be many challenges, but there’s also an opportunity to make a difference.
With increasing numbers of pupils with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, it’s clear that this issue won’t disappear after primary school; these challenges continue into secondary education and beyond.
Building a More Inclusive Mainstream System
One of the most pressing challenges is how to create a truly inclusive environment where every child feels they belong. The government is calling for mainstream schools to cater for more complex needs, and there are changes coming to the Ofsted Inspection Frameworks to reflect this. Schools will face greater accountability for SEND reforms, with progress tracking becoming a key component of assessments.
So, how can mainstream schools rise to meet this challenge?
The answer lies in community, collaboration, and the willingness to be aspirational for every child’s individual needs.
As one leader recently said:
“Aspiration is about being brave. We need to understand that every child should have access to a mainstream curriculum. We need to be brave as leaders. We need to be aspirational to every child’s individual needs to make this happen.”
It’s about working together as a community of educators to create a system that is not only inclusive but personalised, empathetic, and adaptable to the unique needs of every child.
The Role of Evidence for Learning in Supporting SEND
So, how can schools make real, lasting changes that support pupils and students with SEND? Evidence for Learning (EfL) is a platform designed to meet the needs of both mainstream and specialist settings. EfL is more than just a tool; it’s a community-driven approach to supporting SEND learners in mainstream classrooms.
EfL offers schools a window into what’s happening with each child, allowing teachers and leaders to track progress and make data-driven decisions in real time. The platform provides live feedback that opens up communication between educators and families, offering a collaborative space where the entire team around a child can work together to ensure they reach their potential.
As one educator shared:
“EfL gives a window into what’s happening in school. What progress and key steps have been made today. It’s a platform allowing a live conversation and dialogue with families, it’s really powerful.”
But it’s not just about tracking progress, EfL encourages reflective practice, giving teachers and leaders the opportunity to make the changes that will truly impact children’s learning. By creating a space where educators can reflect, and adjust their approach, EfL empowers them to build on their practice and improve the provision for children with SEND.
Working Together to Create a Better Future
“This is tough. But community and being there for each other can make a difference.”
Schools, educators, families, and students must come together to create an environment where every child, no matter their background or challenges, has the opportunity to succeed.
At its heart, EfL is a tool for collaboration. It enables schools to connect the entire team around each child, ensuring that the right people are working together to provide the best possible support. And in today’s educational climate, that’s more important than ever.
“There’s opportunities for every child. If you adapt and personalise enough, you can deliver what they actually need.”
With the right tools, strategies, and mindset, we can meet the challenge of SEND in mainstream education and create a system that works for all children. Through collective effort, bravery, and a deep commitment to understanding and supporting every child, we can build a future where SEND learners not only survive but thrive.
Explore how Evidence for Learning can help your school create a more inclusive, reflective, and supportive environment for pupils and students with SEND. Let’s work together to make sure every child belongs.
