The UK government, led by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, is preparing to implement significant reforms to the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system as children transition from primary to secondary school. These reforms are intended to ensure that the support provided to these students is effectively reviewed and tailored to their specific needs during this crucial transition period. The changes aim to create a more streamlined process for assessing and meeting the educational requirements of SEND students, aligning with broader educational reforms across the country.

A central aspect of the proposed reforms is the intention to lessen the dependence on Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), which are designed to outline the support that children with SEND are entitled to receive. These plans, while legally binding, have faced criticism for being cumbersome and inadequately addressing the varying needs of students. The government's objective is to simplify the support system, allowing for more flexibility in creating individualized educational plans that can adapt to the evolving needs of students as they grow.

The full details of the proposed changes are anticipated to be unveiled when Parliament returns from recess, with stakeholders eager to understand how these reforms will affect children with SEND and their families. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need to improve educational outcomes for all students, particularly those who require additional support. It also raises important questions about how schools will implement these changes and the impact on existing EHCPs in place for students currently receiving those services.