Sweeping School Reforms Unveiled Amid Parental Concerns
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has announced a comprehensive set of school reforms, describing them as a "golden opportunity to cut the link between background and success." The government's plans aim to halve the disadvantage gap between poorer and more affluent pupils by the time today's youngest students complete secondary school.
Targeting Educational Inequality
The reforms, outlined in a schools white paper, propose significant changes to how disadvantage funding is allocated. Instead of relying primarily on free school meal eligibility, the new system will consider factors such as household income levels, duration of disadvantage, and geographic location. Ministers argue this approach will reduce administrative burdens on schools and ensure support reaches pupils who need it most, including those whose families do not formally claim free school meals.
Additionally, the government has set an ambitious target to recover 20 million lost school days annually by 2028/29, compared to 2023/24 levels. To address recruitment challenges, incentives of up to £15,000 will be offered to encourage new headteachers to work in underserved areas.
Controversy Over SEND Reforms
Much of the public discussion has centered on proposed changes to the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system, which were leaked earlier this week. Reports suggest that from 2029, Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) could be reassessed at the end of primary school. A new legally recognized framework, Individual Support Plans (ISPs), would be introduced for all children with SEND.
These proposals have sparked anxiety among some families. Tiya Currie, a mother from north London, expressed deep concern for her son Arun, who has delayed language disorder (DLD). She told Sky News, "EHCPs will be removed for my child when he will need it for his secondary school. Just what I was fearing." Ms. Currie added that she is "extremely scared" for her son's future, fearing reduced access to speech and language therapy without EHCPs.
Mixed Reactions and Broader Implications
While Education Secretary Phillipson praised the reforms as a significant shift in delivering opportunity through the school system, some parents and campaigners warn that moving away from EHCPs could reduce access to essential therapies like speech and language therapy and occupational therapy. Others argue that structural changes alone will not address long-standing shortages in specialist provision.
The government maintains that these reforms are necessary to modernize the education system and ensure all children, regardless of background or additional needs, have equal opportunities for success. However, as the plans are unveiled, the debate continues over their potential impact on vulnerable students and their families.
