Reading Chris Zarraga’s article in these pages last week detailing the scale of the challenge in meeting need for students in the north east left me with a certain sense of despair. It is clear that our most vulnerable learners are being put at risk by a system that is in need of change.
But there is hope too, notably in the recognition (in the article and across the system more broadly), that the solutions aren’t all to be found in specialist settings – that every school has a part to play in developing their practices to make the system as a whole more inclusive.
Yes, finding the right school place can and does make a world of difference. We see time and again how a setting where a pupil fits in, where their needs are recognised and met and where they can build positive relationships leads to strong progress, good qualifications and preparation for adulthood.
Some will make it back to mainstream schools armed with a better understanding of their needs and how to manage their emotions. Most will make a successful transition into education, employment or training at 16. And their families will feel better supported and more able to work together with school to help their children succeed too.
