Wokingham Headteacher backs MP's calls for SEND debate

A Wokingham headteacher is among a number of school leaders backing calls made by MP Clive Jones for a debate in parliament about the availability of places for children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). 
Speaking in the House of Commons, Wokingham MP Clive Jones called for a debate on urgently expanding the availability of specialist provision for children with SEND. 

He told fellow MPs: “In Wokingham, there is a real issue with mainstream schools declaring that they cannot meet the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities. Specialist providers are also unavailable, which leaves children effectively out of formal education for many months, if not years. Can we have a debate in Government time on radically and rapidly expanding the availability of specialist provision for children with SEND to ensure that every child has a place at school?”

Nicola Cotter, Headteacher, Windmill Primary School, said: “We welcome Clive Jones MP’s decision to raise the issue of specialist SEND provision, which affects some of our most vulnerable children. At Windmill Primary, ensuring every child’s needs are met remains our core priority. The current shortage of specialist placements presents real barriers to inclusion, and we back his efforts wholeheartedly in advocating for solutions that support both the learning and wellbeing of all pupils.”

The MP's intervention is being seen as a significant step forward in raising awareness of the local issue at a national level. Windmill Primary School, its leadership team, as well as other schools in the area, are working together to try to ensure that the voices of local children, families, and educators are heard and that meaningful solutions are pursued.