As much as I agree with the sentiments of your editorial on Ofsted’s report on inclusion, it is important to point out that there has been little support offered to schools in developing curriculum for pupils with special needs.
Most teachers are committed to these pupils but often lack the skills and resources to design and deliver appropriate lessons. Research, training and support at secondary level are minimal.
Most SEN funding is targeted at propping up individuals by use of teaching assistants in the vague hope that they (usually without planning, liaison and curriculum knowledge) will translate an often inappropriate curriculum for the young person.
Surely it would be more profitable for some of this funding to find its way into initial and in-service training and strategic development in order to allow teachers to develop expertise, skills and resources that will sustain generations of pupils?
Martyn Owen
Assistant head
Big Wood school, Nottingham
