‘Attainment at all costs’ approach could undermine Send changes, school leaders in England say

Union says emphasis on academic goals conflicts with proposed measures on special educational needs provision

Changes to special educational needs provision in England could be thwarted by “academic attainment at all costs” policies that prioritise exam results and punish inclusive schools, headteachers have said in response to a government consultation.

The Association of School and College Leaders said the government’s emphasis on academic goals conflicted with its measures designed to help mainstream schools accommodate more children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send).