Published date:
This summary briefing is provided as part of the Education Committee's Strategic Review of current SEN provision and the SEN Reform Agenda.
The Committee is undertaking an important examination of both the challenges within current SEN arrangements and the extent to which proposed reforms are likely to improve outcomes for children and young people.
This presents an opportunity to consider not only the structures and processes that support children and young people with SEN, but also the wider conditions required for meaningful participation, genuine belonging and measurable improvements in outcomes.
While this briefing focuses primarily on evidence relating to autistic children and young people, many of the observations and conclusions are equally relevant to neurodivergent pupils, and children and young people with SEN more broadly.
This briefing draws upon research literature, departmental publications, oversight and inspection reports, professional and academic evidence, international practice, lived experience evidence, stakeholder engagement, and the Reviewer's own monitoring, survey and polling activity.