Education Sector Analysis

Autumn Budget 2024: Council chiefs welcome £1bn SEND funding boost

A £1 billion funding increase for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) services announced in the government’s Autumn Budget has been welcomed by council leaders. However, they warn that wider reform of the SEND system is needed to deliver further improvements to children’s lives.

To support pupils with special educational needs that can only be met in a private school, local authorities and devolved governments that fund these places will be compensated for the VAT they are charged on those pupils’ fees. Private schools which are “wholly or mainly” concerned with providing full time education to pupils with an Education, Health and Care Plan will remain eligible for business rates charitable relief.

In addition, the government are increasing funding for the core schools budget by £2.3 billion, increasing per pupil funding in real terms. £1 billion of this funding will go towards supporting the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system and Alternative Provision funding, equivalent to 6% real growth.

In announcing the uplift Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said that the government “is committed to improving SEND provision” and money will be released to councils from this year.

Education Sector Analysis

SEND System Faces Financial Crisis and Inclusivity Challenges

The National Audit Office (NAO) report highlights a crisis in the SEND system, urging the Department for Education to reform funding and accountability. It warns that over 40% of councils may face bankruptcy due to SEND spending, with deficits potentially reaching £4.6 billion by March 2026. The report calls for a long-term vision for inclusivity in mainstream schools and improved parental confidence.

The report criticises the lack of incentives for schools to be inclusive and the government's unclear vision for inclusivity. It notes that only half of EHCPs were issued within the statutory time limit in 2023, with demand rising by 140% since 2015. The NAO stresses the need for urgent government action to ensure financial sustainability and effective support for children with SEND.

Leading Voices 📣 

Highlights from the LGA Conference: What’s Next for Local Government?

Pippa Barlow from Agilisys recently shared insights from the LGA Annual Conference in Harrogate, focusing on the critical issues currently facing Local Government. Here are three key takeaways:

• SEND System Reform: There’s an urgent need for change as demand on SEND services continues to rise, while resources struggle to keep pace.

• Supporting an Ageing Population: Nearly 63% of councils exceeded their Adult Social Care budgets last year. With demand growing, sustainable solutions are essential.

• The Role of Technology: Embracing tech innovations, Local Government is paving the way for more efficient and personalised services to tackle these challenges.

🔗 Check out Pippa’s full post for a deeper dive into the discussion on reshaping services for the future.

Live Event

Autumn Budget 2024 and AI - How Will Your Organisation Evolve?

With the UK public sector’s digital transformation well underway, the Autumn Budget 2024 brings a pivotal 6.5% funding increase for digital reforms, reinforcing the Government’s Roadmap for Digital Transformation (2022-2025). This budget marks a decisive moment for a digital-first public sector and raises the question: will your organisation be part of this transformation?

Agilisys is hosting The Great Public Sector Makeover: AI’s Answer to Systemic Challenges on 25th November 2024 - a must-attend live broadcast for public sector professionals who want to stay ahead of emerging changes and opportunities.

Our panel of specialists will explore real-world AI applications for addressing some of the public sector’s greatest challenges, from budget constraints and outdated systems to increasing demand for efficiency. You’ll gain actionable strategies to implement AI solutions that drive immediate impact.

What you’ll gain:

• TL;DR Summary for Your Team: Receive a concise summary of key discussion points, perfect for sharing.

• Exclusive Early Access: Get early access to the video recording and content pieces generated from the event.

• Connections with Experts: Engage with AI leaders, digital transformation experts, and public sector innovators.

Be part of the transformation.

Education Crisis

Special Needs Tribunal Delays Leave Families Struggling for Support

Parents face over a year-long wait for tribunal hearings due to a surge in special educational needs (Send) cases, with numbers rising from 13,083 to 20,102 in a year. Councils struggle to meet demands, lacking resources and suitable school places.

The Send tribunal system is overwhelmed, with cases increasing by 43% annually. Parents often succeed in tribunals, but delays disadvantage children, as councils sometimes delay outcomes to save costs.

Calls for reform are urgent, with local authorities urged to be adequately resourced and accountable. The government is working on improvements, including recruiting more judges and enhancing early support for Send children.

Educational Policy

Urgent Reforms Needed for Equitable SEND Support in Schools

High-needs funding for SEND pupils has increased significantly, yet outcomes remain unimproved. Despite a rise in EHCPs, funding allocation issues persist, with local authorities diverting funds to cover budget gaps. Early identification and needs-based support are crucial, particularly for speech and language needs.

Initiatives like Elklan training and the proposed higher-level communication practitioner role aim to enhance support. However, clearer standards for mainstream schools and a national inclusion dashboard are needed. Schools should have the freedom to tailor curricula, with health services visibly involved.

Urgent reform in funding allocation and transparency is essential to prevent continued unequal support. The DfE, local authorities, and health services must coordinate to ensure every child receives the necessary support.

Education and Training

SEND Campus Closes Garden Centre and Cafe for Educational Use

The Thorngrove Garden Centre and cafe in Gillingham, operated by Employ My Ability (EMA), has closed to the public. This decision aims to repurpose the space for educational and adult social care services, enhancing hospitality courses and safeguarding students' needs. EMA's commitment to providing optimal settings for education and care is underscored by Managing Director Steve White's statement on prioritising students' diverse opportunities and future prospects.

Despite the closure, EMA remains engaged with the community through projects like Shaftesbury in Bloom. The Walled Garden and cafe in Moreton will continue to operate publicly. This strategic move reflects EMA's dedication to ensuring the best outcomes for current and future students, balancing community involvement with the necessity for improved facilities and space.