William Eichler 21 January 2025

Number of school children receiving SEN support surges 40%

Number of school children receiving SEN support surges 40% image
Image: Denis Kuvaev / Shutterstock.com.

The number of British school children receiving support for special educational needs (SEN) has surged by 40% since 2016-2017, a new study has revealed.

The increase surpasses growth rates in Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, according to researchers at the European Agency for Special Needs and Inclusive Education (EASIE).

In 2021-2022, over 560,000 children received SEN support, with Scotland contributing disproportionately to the rise.

A recent report by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) found that half of all councils in England are in danger of effective bankruptcy due in part to SEN pressures.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Adults Social Worker - Early Help & Wellbeing

Essex County Council
£37185 - £50081 per annum + Flexible Working, Hybrid Working
Interviews will be held in person at County Hall, Chelmsford on 30th January 2026.About the TeamMental health social care is transforming into a new England, Essex, Chelmsford
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Clerk to School Governing Boards

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
£38,976 – £47,229 per annum (subject to experi
The role

Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Learning Engagement Support Officer

Durham County Council
Grade 6 £28,142 - £31,022
Durham County Council’s Culture, Sport and Tourism Service delivers outstanding cultural experiences across the council's culture venues and programme Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Operational Supervisor

Durham County Council
£32,597 - £36,363 p.a. Grade 8
Adult Care Hawthorn House Operational Supervisor 37 hours Permanent post Grade 8 VACANCY NO
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Office Administrator

Durham County Council
£25,185 - £25,989 pro rata
Office administrator Grade 3, £25,185 – £25,989 pro rata Permanent, full time, term time only plus 2 weeks Required to start as soon as possible Howl Peterlee
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner