This one day online conference will examine next steps for SEND provision in England.

It will bring stakeholders and policymakers together to discuss the forthcoming Schools White Paper and the final report of the Curriculum and Assessment Review, and what expected recommendations mean for reform of assessment, curriculum design, and inclusion.

Overview of areas for discussion
• assessment reform: proposals in the Schools White Paper and C&A Review - effects of alternative teacher assessment on standards - new approaches to support learner attainment
• local finances: options for addressing effects of high-needs spending rising faster than funding - alignment of Transformation Fund investment with long-term sustainability
• placement capacity: impact of forecast rising EHCP demand - pressures on schools that are already over capacity - assessing funding to expand specialist places in mainstream schools
• staffing: strategic options for addressing long waits for speech and language therapy, and shortage of trained specialists across services - initiatives to strengthen training and workforce planning
• coordination:
     ◦ meeting collaborative requirements in the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill - local management of fair access protocols
     ◦ advancing joined-up support across education, health, and care - best practice for schools and parents working together to support children with SEND
• legal rights: proposals to narrow or restructure EHCPs - options for new categories of support plans - priorities for safeguarding entitlements and maintaining trust with families
• inspection: extension of Ofsted powers over social care - closer scrutiny of schools with high pupil movement or complaints - recognising effective practice alongside areas needing improvement
• transport: new distance limits in funding models - options for more efficient provision closer to home - issues being raised in the NAO and PAC inquiries into cots and commissioning
• progression: addressing low attainment levels among learners with SEND - improving progression into FE, HE, and employment - supporting pathways to better outcomes earlier in education.