After disability benefits, is Labour really about to target the educational rights of special needs children? | John Harris
Briefly

Keir Starmer and Labour MPs are anxious about the upcoming education reforms targeting special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, aims to reverse Conservative policies that led to exclusion from mainstream schools. She proposes significant changes to improve educational outcomes for SEND children, emphasizing inclusivity. A new task group will be created to promote inclusive education, bolstered by £740 million in funding for accessible classrooms and specialist facilities, reflecting a response to the urgent challenges highlighted by campaign groups and affected families.
Keir Starmer and his colleagues face crucial decisions regarding disability policies in response to the recent backlash over benefit cuts, with significant implications for affected individuals.
Bridget Phillipson's initiative aims to reform the provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities in England, reversing a trend of exclusion from mainstream education.
The education sector is challenged by long-standing issues like underfunding and rising costs, highlighting the urgent need for reform in the system catering to SEND students.
A new neurodivergence task group will focus on enhancing inclusive education, backed by substantial funding intended for adapting classrooms and creating specialized facilities.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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