Event Summary

Over 1.6 million pupils in England have special educational needs (SEN)*, an increase of 101,000 from 2023. With growing pressure on funding, resources, and staff, how can we deliver a truly inclusive education system as the number of children with SEND grows? What are the next steps for the sector to improve outcomes and ensure that children reach their full potential?

50% of children are currently waiting more than 20 weeks for an education health and care (EHC) plan, and there is declining confidence in the system.** With an additional £1 billion in high needs funding announced in the Budget, and a commitment from the new government to reform SEND, what will the impact be on a seriously stretched SEND system?

Gain best practice insights from policymakers, leading SEND experts, schools, and local authorities on effective teaching interventions, supporting the SEND workforce, including upskilling teaching assistant roles.

The primary need identified for pupils is speech, language and communication needs. Find out why identifying SLCN is so crucial, create a communication-supportive environment and provide tailored support to meet pupil’s individual needs.

With growing challenges around school attendance and emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA), understand how you can remove barriers to attendance, provide effective mental health support, reduce exclusions, and build flexibility to ensure a tailored approach for SEND students.

Spotlighting neurodivergence, understand how to ensure your classrooms are truly inclusive for pupils with ADHD to autism and dyslexia. Learn from schools, colleges, and award-winning practitioners on how to embed reasonable adjustments and deliver interventions that work.

Bringing together headteachers, SEND leaders and experts, support staff, local authorities, health practitioners and third sector organisations, we will explore what makes best practice, considering the importance of collaboration with pupils, parents, carers, schools, and local services. Don’t miss this chance to join us in Manchester to share innovative best practice, fresh ideas, and discuss what’s next for SEND support and inclusive education in 2025.

*DfE census 2023/24

**NAO report October 2024

Key Points

  • The latest policy and funding updates: what is next for SEND provision
  • Improving outcomes for SEND students: practical strategies to drive attainment
  • Improving collaboration between education providers, NHS, local authorities and parents
  • Increasing support for SEND specialist teachers and upskilling teaching assistants
  • Removing barriers for SEND pupils: attendance, attainment, EBSA and mental health
  • Identifying and supporting students with SLCN
  • Embedding reasonable adjustments and interventions that work in teaching, communication, and classroom environments
  • Navigating EHC needs assessments, Plans and SEND Tribunal appeals
  • Successful transitions: ensuring SEND pupils have the support they need when moving from school to further education, employment and beyond
  • Fostering inclusion so all pupils feel valued and supported, regardless of their needs

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