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Report Reveals Top Schools' Bias Against SEND Pupils

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Sutton Trust reports England's top 500 secondary schools admit far fewer pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) than average comprehensive schools, about half as many.
Forty-one percent of school leaders say some institutions actively discourage SEND applications.
The Sutton Trust calls for government reforms to improve inclusivity and fund SEND resources.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson pledged £1.6 billion over three years to boost SEND support.

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Story summary

The Sutton Trust reports England's top 500 secondary schools admit far fewer pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) than average comprehensive schools, about half as many.
Forty-one percent of school leaders say some institutions actively discourage SEND applications.
The Sutton Trust calls for government reforms to improve inclusivity and fund SEND resources.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson pledged £1.6 billion over three years to boost SEND support.