‘Generational’ reforms are a key moment for Bridget Phillipson, the education secretary, and for Keir Starmer
Ministers will unveil a “generational” overhaul of special educational needs and disabilities (Send) support, pledging £4bn to transform provision in schools in England and warning councils they could lose control of Send services if they fail to meet their legal duties.
The reforms are expected to be a key policy moment for Keir Starmer and for the education secretary, Bridget Phillipson – who delayed the changes last autumn after a ferocious backlash from MPs and parents.
Writing for the Guardian, Phillipson said it would be “improved support, not removed support” and said it was a once in a generation moment to “define the future of education”.
The overhaul will bring about significant extra investment in special needs provision – welcome news as many people had feared the overhaul would be a cuts exercise, given the soaring costs of the services.
