The latest survey on special educational needs (SEN) in England reveals a stark divide in parental satisfaction, highlighting the challenges faced by parents of children with SEN who lack an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP). This issue is particularly concerning given the government's recent proposals to reduce the number of students receiving EHCPs, a move that could exacerbate existing disparities in the education system.
The Satisfaction Gap
The Parent Voice Project's report, 'How Schools Work for Every Child', sheds light on the experiences of parents of children with SEN but no EHCP. A staggering 57% of these parents rated the quality of education at their child's school as high or very high, significantly lower than the 68% of parents with children who have an EHCP and the 71% of parents of children without SEN. This disparity underscores the sense of alienation and dissatisfaction felt by parents whose children's needs are not adequately addressed.
The Importance of Inclusion and Resources
The report emphasizes the importance of greater inclusion of children with SEN in mainstream schools, a policy that aligns with the government's recent changes to the education system. However, it also underscores the critical need for schools to have the necessary resources to support these children effectively. Only 52% of parents believed that teachers had the right tools to handle SEN, and this figure dropped to 38% among parents of children with SEN but no EHCP, indicating a clear gap in the availability of appropriate support.
The Challenge of Attendance
The survey also explored the issue of school attendance, a concern that has been heightened by record levels of absenteeism. While ministers have set an ambitious 94% attendance target, the survey found that attendance was not a major concern for most parents. Only 8% cited poor attendance rates as a top challenge, with issues such as underfunding, poor behavior, and mental health taking precedence.
Regional Perspectives on School Attendance
The survey revealed significant regional variations in parental views on school attendance. In the north-east of England, nearly 60% of parents believed they should be able to take their children out of school whenever they want, while in London, this percentage dropped to 37%. This disparity highlights the differing expectations and cultural norms surrounding school attendance across the country.
Building Confidence and Relationships
To address the issue of attendance, the report's author, Steve Mills, suggests that schools need to work harder to build confidence and relationships with parents. By fostering a positive school environment where every day is a day children want to attend, schools can encourage better attendance. This approach, as Mills notes, is already successful in the best schools and is what parents want to see implemented more widely.
Conclusion: A Call for Action
The survey's findings serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by parents of children with SEN, particularly those without EHCPs. As the government implements its SEN proposals, it is crucial to ensure that schools have the necessary resources and that parental voices are heard. By addressing these concerns, we can work towards a more inclusive and supportive education system that meets the needs of all children.
