Companies backed by private equity investors and a Middle East sovereign wealth fund running private SEND schools have made millions in profits amid a state capacity crisis.
The firms – many of which also run children’s homes – said they provide high quality education filling a “significant shortfall” in provision, meaning pupils with special needs are not left behind.
But, average independent special school costs are double that of the state sector, analysis suggests, with some councils unable to afford recent increases.
One analysis estimates some companies are making tens of millions of pounds in profit, with one director paid £1.1 million last year. Some are registered in tax havens.
