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UK Schools Grapple with Escalating SEND Crisis as Demand Outpaces Resources

New survey reveals 80% of mainstream schools house SEND pupils awaiting specialist placements, with 94% finding it harder to meet their needs than last year.

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Overview

  • A National Association of Headteachers (NAHT) survey shows 82% of mainstream schools have SEND pupils in their classes due to a lack of specialist placements.
  • Nearly all school leaders (94%) report that supporting SEND pupils has become more challenging compared to the previous year, citing resource shortages.
  • Two-thirds of special schools are at or over capacity, with demand for specialist places expected to rise in coming years.
  • The government has pledged £1.7 billion in additional funding and £740 million to expand specialist places, but school leaders argue systemic reform and immediate action are needed.
  • NAHT leaders warn of a recruitment and retention crisis, escalating mental health needs, and inadequate facilities, further straining the ability to meet growing SEND demands.