£10m boost for special education

12 April 2012

Funding to the tune of £10 million a year is to be set aside for schools to train Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators.

The co-ordinators - Sencos - are the key people responsible for the learning and support of all children with special educational needs in their school.

The money will allow them to undertake new, nationally-accredited training.

From September, it will be a requirement that all Sencos be qualified teachers and receive additional training.

A further £12 million will be put towards training for trainee and existing teachers.

The funding is part of a package laid out by schools minister Lord (Andrew) Adonis in his speech to Voice, the union for teaching professionals.

Lord Adonis said: "Improving the life chances of children with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities is an absolute priority for this Government and equipping teachers with the skills they need is central to this.

"Overall, funding for SEN provision has risen by more than £1 billion in the last four years.

"Teachers who take on a specific role in helping children with special needs and disabilities are an inspirational group, who do an amazing job.

"It is only right that we meet their commitment by providing them with the professional development they need."

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