New Funding for Sen support: What It Means for schools
What It Means for schools
The UK government has recently announced significant funding increases and systemic reforms aimed at improving support for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). While these measures are a step forward, the challenges facing schools remain complex and substantial. Here's what the new funding means for schools, how it impacts SEN provisions, and how JobsinED can help schools overcome staffing and support gaps.
The Scale of SEN Support Needs
In the past decade, the number of children requiring SEN support has more than doubled, creating immense pressure on schools, councils, and the education system. Local authorities are grappling with mounting financial deficits due to the surging demand for SEN services, projected to reach £4.9 billion by March 2026. This backdrop highlights why the government's commitment to increased funding is so critical.
Read the full National Audit Office report
What the New Funding Includes
The Department for Education has allocated £10.7 billion for the 2024–25 fiscal year to support SEN services across local authorities, schools, and colleges. This funding is designed to help schools meet the higher needs of children with SEN, including:
- Enhanced Resources: Increased budgets for tailored support such as teaching assistants, specialist equipment, and intervention programs.
- Inclusion in Mainstream Schools: Funding to foster a more inclusive environment for SEN students in mainstream education.
- Training and Development: Additional investment in teacher training to equip staff with the skills needed to support SEN students effectively.
Read the official government funding announcement
How JobsinED Can Help Schools Meet Their SEN Needs
While funding increases are promising, many schools face challenges in accessing the skilled staff and resources they need to implement SEN support effectively. JobsinED specialises in providing tailored recruitment solutions for education settings, helping schools bridge the gap between policy goals and real-world application.
Recruitment of SEN Support Staff:
Access to Trained Graduates:
JobsinED focuses on placing recent psychology and education graduates into SEN roles, ensuring schools benefit from a fresh and enthusiastic workforce.
Learn more about JobsinED’s graduate recruitment services
Support for Staffing Gaps:
Whether you need temporary cover or long-term staff, we provide flexible solutions to help schools maintain consistent SEN support.
Stay Updated on Reforms:
Read this article on SEN inclusivity in mainstream schools
The Benefits for Schools
The new funding, combined with expert recruitment support from JobsinED, provides schools with the opportunity to:
- Improve Inclusivity: With better access to resources and qualified staff, schools can create learning environments that support all students.
- Enhance Staff Training: By hiring staff with experience or training in SEN, schools can improve their ability to meet the diverse needs of their student population.
- Boost Learning Outcomes: Additional support in the classroom allows SEN students to achieve their potential, benefiting both individuals and the broader school community.
- Focus on Long-Term Goals: With skilled professionals in place, schools can dedicate more time and resources to strategic SEN development.
Explore Routes Into Teaching
Your time as a Teaching Assistant (TA) or Academic Mentor can prepare you for the many pathways into teaching. Some schools even offer direct progression into training programs. Here are some of the most popular options:
- SCITT (School-Centred Initial Teacher Training): SCITT programs allow you to train in a school-based environment while gaining a teaching qualification. Schools often value candidates with prior experience in support roles.
Learn more about SCITT programs - Teach First: Teach First is a competitive leadership program that places candidates in schools serving disadvantaged communities. Your experience as a TA strengthens your application.
Explore Teach First - University-Led PGCE: A Postgraduate Certificate in Education offers both theoretical and practical training, and TA experience provides a strong foundation.
Read more about PGCE programs - School-Led Training Options: Some schools offer direct teacher training pathways for internal candidates excelling in roles like TA or Academic Mentor.
Explore School Direct Training Programs - Teach While You Train Programs: Certain schools provide opportunities to train as a teacher while working in a paid teaching role.
Learn about Teach While You Train programs
Explore more teaching career tips on JobsinED
What Schools Need to Succeed
To fully benefit from the new funding and reforms, schools must focus on:
- Strategic Staffing: Ensuring skilled professionals are in place to deliver SEN support effectively. JobsinED can help bridge this gap.
- Ongoing Professional Development: Investing in training for teachers and support staff to stay updated on evolving SEN strategies.
- Collaboration with Experts: Partnering with recruitment specialists like JobsinED to access a pool of qualified candidates.
- Advocacy for More Support: Continuing to highlight gaps in resources to ensure policymakers address remaining challenges.
Take the Next Step with JobsinED
At JobsinED, we specialise in connecting schools with talented SEN support staff, helping them navigate the challenges of SEN provision while making the most of available funding. From sourcing Teaching Assistants to Academic Mentors, we provide flexible, tailored solutions to suit your school’s needs.
Explore current SEN job opportunities
Final Thoughts
The government’s investment in SEN support represents a critical step forward, but schools must navigate these changes strategically. By combining the increased funding with expert recruitment services from JobsinED, schools can build inclusive, supportive environments where all students can thrive.
Explore JobsinED’s Recruitment Services and take the first step today!