The Government’s plans to introduce the Education for All Bill will give education leaders the confidence to move forward with projects that support inclusive learning environments, according to multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard.
The proposed reforms build on the Government's 'Every Child Achieving and Thriving' schools white paper, which aims to raise standards and improve support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Under the plans, all pupils in mainstream schools will receive a level of Targeted support, while a new Specialist support category will be introduced for those with the most complex needs. Schools will also be expected to provide greater access to specialist services and dedicated SEND spaces, including inclusion hubs.
Pick Everard says the proposals provide long-awaited clarity for schools and academy trusts, enabling them to identify viable projects now and avoid delays once the legislation is implemented.
Sean Conneely, Director of Project Management specialising in education projects at Pick Everard, said: "The Education for All Bill will help to remove much of the uncertainty around the future direction of SEND provision. Schools will have a clearer picture of the support they will be expected to provide and can begin planning the spaces, facilities and environments needed to deliver it effectively.
"The most successful projects won't necessarily involve major new-build programmes. In many cases, schools already have spaces that can be adapted into inclusion hubs, intervention rooms or specialist support areas. The key is identifying those opportunities early and developing a plan that aligns with future requirements."
Pick Everard believes the school environment will play a critical role in delivering the Government's vision for a more inclusive education system, with flexible and adaptable spaces helping schools provide the support all pupils need to thrive.
Beyond creating dedicated support areas, schools may also need to consider how existing learning and social spaces can better accommodate a wider range of teaching approaches, learning styles and wellbeing needs. Adaptable environments, access to outdoor learning, quiet spaces and flexible layouts can all contribute to a more inclusive experience for pupils.
Under the Government's Plan for Change, 60,000 new SEND places are expected to be created in mainstream schools, with every school set to have access to an inclusion hub. The Government has also announced significant investment in SEND provision and specialist support services over the coming years.
Sean added: "The Education for All Bill will give schools greater certainty about the direction of travel for SEND provision. Those that begin planning now will be best placed to create inclusive environments that support both educational outcomes and pupil wellbeing.
"Whether through adapting existing spaces, creating inclusion hubs or rethinking how learning environments are used, schools have an opportunity to make improvements that will benefit pupils for years to come. The key is taking a strategic approach today, with the aim of building better together, so projects can be delivered efficiently when they are needed most."
Over the last 10 years, Pick Everard has designed and managed more than 30 Department for Education projects with a collective value of £500 million. With extensive experience supporting local authorities, academy trusts and education providers throughout the UK, the firm is well equipped to deliver education programmes and estate improvements.
