Government capital funding earmarked to create more SEND places in mainstream schools but teacher training remains crucial

The UK government has announced a £740 million of capital funding to create more Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) places within mainstream schools.

This funding will allow schools to physically adapt their environments to better support children and young people with SEND, creating more inclusive and accessible learning spaces. While this investment is a welcome step, experts emphasise that physical changes alone are insufficient.

Effective SEND provision requires not only a supportive environment but also highly trained staff. This is where qualifications like the new AIM Qualifications Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry for Teaching Assistants focusing on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (Diploma) become vital.

This diploma, developed in collaboration with employers, offers a non-apprenticeship pathway for aspiring and existing Teaching Assistants.