Biggest ever overhaul of SEND teacher training begins

The government has published first-of-their-kind training materials developed by Ambition Institute, designed to support every teacher in England in teaching children and young people with SEND. These free, adaptable resources are available for schools and post-16 settings to use flexibly, either throughout the year or on existing training days. The materials focus on practical techniques such as breaking instructions into smaller steps, pre-teaching specialist vocabulary, and providing time for practice to foster inclusion in classrooms.

Online training for early years staff, created by Dingley’s Promise, is also being introduced to support inclusive practices from the outset. This includes using visual timetables to assist children with transitions and adapting environments to reduce noise barriers. The initiative is part of a £200 million government investment aimed at transforming support for children with SEND and addressing regional disparities in access to resources.

The government’s announcement follows concerns raised by teachers, parents, and young people about the need for more training in supporting children with SEND. One in three teachers and a quarter of teaching assistants reported insufficient training as a barrier to effective support. Further resources are planned for January and April next year, with fully funded training courses set to launch in September 2025 for teachers, leaders, and support staff nationwide.

The training materials emphasize inclusive practice as a core part of high-quality teaching, recognizing that meeting SEND needs is integral to effective learning. Research indicates that young people with SEND are around 80% more likely to be not in education, employment, or training (NEET) than average, highlighting the urgency of early intervention. The resources are designed to be practical and adaptable, providing staff with tools to support a wide range of needs and strengthen inclusive teaching practices.