Mainstream schools in the UK are set to benefit from a significant funding boost aimed at supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This initiative, amounting to £4 billion, is part of a broader governmental strategy intended to foster inclusivity within the education system. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized the need for a system that empowers SEND students, stating that all children deserve access to resources that help them thrive.

As part of this funding package, schools will receive direct financial support tailored towards implementing targeted interventions. These include specialized programs like small-group language sessions, geared towards enhancing communication skills among SEND students. Additionally, financial resources will assist educators in adopting adaptive teaching methods, ensuring a more inclusive classroom environment. The package is expected to promote innovative approaches to education for students with diverse needs, indicating a shift in governmental priorities towards inclusive education.

Over the next three years, approximately £1.6 billion will be dedicated to early years, schools, and colleges through an 'inclusive mainstream fund.' Furthermore, £1.8 billion will establish an 'experts at hand' service, deploying specialists such as SEND teachers and speech and language therapists across various regions. This multifaceted approach is designed not only to improve the educational experience for SEND pupils but also to equip teachers and staff with the necessary skills and resources to meet diverse student needs, ensuring that inclusion becomes a foundational aspect of the UK education system.