Parental Satisfaction Among SEND Students Without EHCPs in England

A recent survey conducted by the Parent Voice Project reveals significant dissatisfaction among parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who do not have an education, health and care plan (EHCP). The survey, which included over 6,000 parents, indicates that this group is the least satisfied with their children's educational experience. Only 57% of parents of SEND children without EHCPs rated their school’s quality of education as high or very high, compared to 68% of parents with SEND children who do have EHCPs and 71% of parents of children without SEND.

The Guardian

The findings come in the wake of Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson's announcement regarding new SEND proposals, which are expected to result in hundreds of thousands fewer students receiving EHCPs by 2035. While there is support for the inclusion of SEND children in mainstream schools, parents express concerns about the adequacy of resources available to teachers. Only 52% of parents believe teachers have the necessary tools to support SEND students, a figure that drops to 38% among those without EHCPs. Fiona Forbes, founder of the Parent Voice Project, emphasized the need for consistent support in mainstream schools to ensure successful reform.

The Guardian

The survey also highlights that attendance is not a primary concern for most parents, with only 8% identifying poor attendance as a top challenge. Instead, issues such as school underfunding, poor behavior, and mental health among students were cited as more pressing. Regional differences in attitudes toward school attendance were noted, with nearly 60% of parents in the north-east believing they should have the option to withdraw their children from school, compared to only 37% in London.

The Guardian

Critics argue that the government's approach to tackling absenteeism may not align with parental priorities. Steve Mills, a headteacher and adviser to the report, stated that schools need to foster better relationships with parents to enhance attendance. He advocates for creating an engaging school environment where students are eager to attend, rather than feeling compelled to do so.

The Guardian

• “If reform can deliver earlier and more visible support in mainstream schools, many parents will welcome it,” — Fiona Forbes, Founder of the Parent Voice Project

The Guardian

• “If you’ve got a kid who turns up every week, Monday to Friday, they’re on time, they’re always there, then if the parents want to take them for a two-week holiday once a year, they should go for it.” — Father from Oldham

The Guardian

• “We want pupils running through the gates because school is exciting. I think that is possible. That’s what happens in the best schools, and parents want to see that everywhere.” — Steve Mills, Headteacher

The Guardian

The survey underscores a growing disconnect between government educational policies and the needs of parents, particularly those of SEND children without EHCPs. As the government moves forward with its proposals, the emphasis on adequate resources and parental engagement will be crucial in addressing the concerns highlighted by the survey.

The Guardian