Early years settings report that more children than ever before are coming through their doors with additional needs. The rising need, along with insufficient Government funding for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in the early years, is placing nursery providers under unsustainable pressure as they strive to meet the needs of every child in their setting.
Lack of access to advice and training, fewer area SENCos to turn to for support and longer waiting lists for assessments and diagnoses are some of the key challenges.
The Government’s SEND and alternative provision improvement plan, published in March, pledges to give children the ‘right support in the right place, at the right time’, with a focus on early help and a review of the existing funding system. But until more on-the-ground support and funding is in place, settings report being ‘left to flounder’ or ‘at breaking point’.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
