Oxfordshire SEND plan aims to improve support for children

Oxfordshire County Council’s SEND reform proposals were discussed by its cabinet on Tuesday, June 16.

They include expanding inclusion in mainstream schools, boosting recruitment of educational psychologists and therapists, and creating inclusion support bases.

Sean Gaul, the council’s cabinet member for children, education and young people’s services, said: “Every child deserves an opportunity to thrive whatever their circumstances and this plan sets out how we will deliver better, more inclusive support for children and young people with SEND.

“We are working closely with partners and with families, children and young people who are at the heart of the SEND system.”

Ofsted has previously recognised recent improvements in Oxfordshire’s SEND services, including better joint commissioning and reduced waiting times.

The plan has been developed in consultation with health partners, schools, and the Oxfordshire Parent Carer Forum, and focuses on early intervention, universal and targeted support, and improved outcomes.

If approved, the council will receive a high needs stability grant, potentially covering up to 90 per cent of its dedicated schools grant deficit.

Mr Gaul said: “It’s a vital step towards improving outcomes while making sure our services are sustainable for the future.”

The reform plan is part of the council’s response to national education reforms, including the ‘Every child achieving and thriving’ Schools White Paper and the ‘putting children and young people first’ SEND consultation.

Councils must submit their SEND reform plans to the Department for Education by 19 June.