SEND and alternative provision | Ofsted's annual report 2023

Anna Trethewey, Deputy Director, Cross Remit Education looks at what our annual report said about the special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) system as well as the quality of alternative provision (AP). You can read the chapter here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publica... And the full report here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publica... Demand for SEND services is increasing, leaving schools and local authorities struggling to cope. The proportion of children in schools accessing SEN support has risen: 2016: 11.6% 2022: 12.6% 2023: 13% The growing pressure on schools means that AP is sometimes used as a shadow SEND system. And we have concerns about the quality of some alternative provision, particularly when it is unregistered. So far, we’ve completed 16 area SEND inspections: 👉 In 5, arrangements typically lead to positive experiences and outcomes 👉 In 6, experiences and outcomes are inconsistent 👉 In 5, there are widespread or systemic failings Overall, SEND support and AP is under significant pressure. There is lots of good practice, but the national picture remains inconsistent. 0:00 Intro 0:34 Children with SEND 1:09 SEND in schools 1:27 Alternative provision 2:13 Area SEND inspections