Understanding the SEND Reform: What Schools Need to Know

The SEND Reform set out in the 2025–26 Schools White Paper represents the most significant shift in special educational needs provision for more than ten years. The government’s aim is to build a more consistent, inclusive and better connected system that strengthens how schools identify needs, deliver support and collaborate with families and external professionals.

For teachers, support staff and school leaders, getting to grips with these changes is crucial. This guide explains what the SEND Reform involves, how it will work in practice and what it means for the children who rely on the system.

What Is the SEND Reform?

The SEND Reform is a nationwide redesign of how schools support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The White Paper sets a clear expectation that mainstream schools should function as inclusive environments by default. Earlier identification, stronger multi‑agency working and more consistent support across regions sit at the centre of the new approach.

A More Consistent Way to Identify SEND Needs

A major part of the reform is the shift toward earlier and more reliable identification of special educational needs. Schools will move to standardised Individual Support Plans, replacing the wide mix of local templates currently used. This gives teachers a single, structured process for planning, delivering and reviewing support.

To make this work in practice, the reform highlights the importance of:

  • Evidence informed classroom strategies
  • Clearer monitoring of interventions
  • Quicker access to multi agency specialists

Together, these changes aim to create a more stable and supportive experience for pupils with SEND.

 

A Stronger Emphasis on Wellbeing and Belonging

With national data showing a decline in pupil wellbeing, the SEND Reform places belonging, emotional safety and mental health at the centre of schools. Staff will be expected to build environments where pupils feel connected and supported and to track wellbeing more consistently across schools.

Stronger, More Transparent Partnerships With Parents

A key element is a renewed commitment to placing parents at the centre of decisions. Many families report feeling sidelined by the current system, so the White Paper introduces clear expectations for communication and engagement.

Schools will be required to:

  • Share information openly and clearly
  • Act quickly when concerns are raised
  • Involve parents fully in planning and reviewing support

 

This shift toward relational practice is designed to rebuild trust and ensure families feel valued and included.

 

Multi Agency Collaboration Becomes Standard Practice

The reforms position schools as anchor institutions, meaning they will take a leading role in coordinating support from health, social care and wider local services. This approach is intended to create smoother referral routes, more joint planning and quicker access to the right professionals. For pupils with SEND, this should result in more timely, joined up support that reflects their full range of needs.

More Training and Development for Teachers and Support Staff

To ensure SEND provision is consistent and high quality across the country, the reform brings in stronger expectations around professional learning. Training will link directly to national frameworks and will prioritise key areas such as:

  • Adaptive and responsive teaching
  • Trauma informed approaches
  • Early identification of SEND

The aim is to give staff the knowledge, confidence and practical strategies they need to support a wide range of learners effectively.

 

Broader Curriculum and Enrichment for All Pupils

The White Paper also introduces a national enrichment entitlement, which requires schools to offer a wider mix of arts, sports, STEM and creative opportunities. This is particularly valuable for pupils with SEND, who often flourish when they can explore interests beyond the core curriculum. A richer offer helps build confidence, engagement and a stronger sense of belonging.

What This Means for Children

At its core, the SEND Reform is designed to ensure children with SEND experience:

  • Earlier and more reliable support
  • Better coordinated input from education, health and social care
  • A stronger sense of belonging in school
  • A broader curriculum with more enrichment opportunities

The overall aim is to improve outcomes and build a system where every child feels understood, supported and able to thrive at the right time.

Thinking About Your Next Step in SEND?

If you are considering a new role within SEND education, our team at CER is here to help. You can explore our latest vacancies or find out more here.