The Department for Education has released updated guidance to support school governing boards in fulfilling their duties regarding pupils with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities. This guidance reinforces the importance of inclusive education and ensures that governing boards actively challenge and support their schools in providing high-quality SEND provision.
Key Responsibilities of Governing Boards
The governing board plays a vital role in shaping a school’s ethos and policies, ensuring that pupils with SEN and disabilities receive the support they need. The guidance highlights key areas of focus, including:
• Setting an Inclusive Ethos – Establishing a culture where all pupils, including those with SEND, are fully included in school life.
• Developing and Reviewing Policies – Working closely with senior leaders to create and oversee policies that address the needs of pupils with SEN and disabilities.
• Monitoring and Accountability – Appointing a lead governor or sub-committee to oversee SEND arrangements and ensuring that the board is kept informed of SEND provision and progress.
• Training and Development – Ensuring that governing board members receive regular training to understand their legal duties and best practice in SEND provision.
Legal Responsibilities and Compliance
Governing boards must comply with key legislation, including:
• The Children and Families Act 2014 – Governing how schools identify and support pupils with SEN.
• The Equality Act 2010 – Ensuring that schools meet their duties to prevent discrimination and provide reasonable adjustments.
• The SEND Code of Practice: 0 to 25 years – A statutory document that sets out how schools should provide for pupils with SEND.
SEND Checklist for Governing Boards
The guidance includes a self-evaluation checklist to help governing boards assess their approach to SEND. Schools should ask:
✔ Are we promoting a truly inclusive culture?
✔ Are we effectively engaging with parents and carers of pupils with SEND?
✔ Are we involving pupils in decisions about their support?
✔ Are we allocating SEN funding effectively to improve outcomes?
✔ Are we working collaboratively with local authorities and external professionals?
✔ Are we ensuring staff receive the necessary training and access to specialist expertise?
How SEND Group Can Support
At SEND Group, we are committed to helping schools strengthen their SEND provision. Our range of training, resources, and expert guidance can support governing boards, SENCOs, and senior leaders in meeting their legal duties and ensuring the best possible outcomes for pupils with SEND.
For more details on the updated guidance, you can access the full document on the GOV.UK website.
If your school needs additional support in understanding and implementing SEND best practices, get in touch with SEND Group today.
