In a significant move to improve the education system, all secondary schools will soon be required to renovate classrooms to better accommodate students with additional needs. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson is preparing to unveil the Schools White Paper, outlining a comprehensive strategy to enhance the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system and promote inclusivity in mainstream schools.
As part of this initiative, a mandatory directive will be issued to ensure that all secondary schools establish inclusion bases specifically designed for students with SEND. The Department for Education (DfE) will provide detailed guidelines and design specifications for schools to create these specialized spaces, which will feature elements such as appropriate lighting, sound conditions, breakout rooms for tailored interventions, and outdoor areas offering both quiet and active settings.
In a recent announcement, it was revealed that an additional £700 million will be allocated, alongside the existing £3 billion, to facilitate the creation of 10,000 more inclusion places in mainstream schools. This funding supplements the £3.7 billion previously earmarked for the establishment of 60,000 new inclusion spaces. Many schools already operate inclusion bases, also referred to as special educational needs units or pupil support units.
This development coincides with the launch of the government’s ten-year Education Estates Strategy, aimed at addressing issues like deteriorating infrastructure, overheating problems, and inadequate facilities in schools. Moreover, funding totaling £300 million will be dedicated to boosting internet connectivity in classrooms to prepare for the technology-driven future, while an additional £700 million will support schools in proactively addressing estate concerns, such as repairing roofs and heating systems.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized the importance of this long-term plan, stating, “This strategy signifies a pivotal moment. It goes beyond mere infrastructure improvements; it’s about dismantling barriers to equal opportunities. Every child deserves to receive education in a secure, accessible environment with facilities that cater to their needs and foster their development.”
These announcements form part of the government’s substantial £38 billion investment in the education estate from 2025-26 to 2029-30, which also encompasses funding for expanding the school rebuilding program.