Story perspectives

Schools to Assess Special Needs: £20M Funding Sparks Debate

10/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Bridget Phillipson (Education Secretary) announced plans to shift the responsibility for assessing children with special educational needs and disabilities from local authorities to schools, with an additional £20 million to recruit more specialists.
In an interview, Phillipson said formal assessments will remain, but teachers will have a larger role in identifying needs.
Critics warn the shift could leave students without needed support and raise teacher pressure.

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Story summary

Bridget Phillipson (Education Secretary) announced plans to shift the responsibility for assessing children with special educational needs and disabilities from local authorities to schools, with an additional £20 million to recruit more specialists.
In an interview, Phillipson said formal assessments will remain, but teachers will have a larger role in identifying needs.
Critics warn the shift could leave students without needed support and raise teacher pressure.