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Many schools missing the space for true inclusion
DfE warned that a lack of room threatens SEND plans
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By Peter Clark (Senior Editor, Autism Info Center) Monday 4th May 2026 |
The Department for Education has been warned that a lack of physical space in schools could halt the government's drive for greater inclusion of students with special educational needs and disabilities.
The current SEND reforms involve thousands of pupils being taught in new inclusion bases within mainstream schools.
However, many school sites simply do not have the space to create these new areas.
School leaders have expressed concerns that without additional funding and investment in infrastructure, these plans will be difficult to implement successfully.
The shortage of space is particularly acute in older school buildings and in urban areas where land is limited.
This issue is part of a wider set of challenges facing the SEND reforms, including pressures on staff workload and the need for more specialized training.
Leaders are calling for a clear national strategy on how to use available funding to improve inclusion and to ensure that all schools are equipped to meet the needs of their students.
The success of the inclusion drive depends on providing schools with the necessary resources and facilities to create a truly inclusive environment for every neurodivergent person.
Source: Tes Magazine (UK)
https://www.tes.com/magazine/hub/send
Further reading, listening and viewing...
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