Responding to a new report by the National Foundation for Educational Reserch (NFER) on special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support in schools including multi-academy trusts, James Bowen, assistant general secretary at school leaders’ union NAHT, said:

“SEND funding for all types of schools and local authorities has simply not kept pace with demand – both academies and maintained schools are hamstrung by gaping holes in the finances and staffing needed to provide the support some pupils need.

“Despite those challenges, there is still plenty of excellent SEND provision in all types of schools, with school leaders and their staff doing everything they possibly can to meet the needs of all pupils.

“However, until the government delivers a step change in funding for SEND and invests properly so that schools have timely access to specialist services, they will continue to find it difficult to ensure all children get the help they deserve.”