Minister discusses SEND reforms and education investment at two South Tyneside schools
The Minister for Schools has met with South Tyneside families and pupils to discuss SEND reform and investment in education.
The Minister of State for School Standards has discussed SEND reform and investment in education at two South Tyneside schools.
Kate Osborne, MP for Jarrow and Gateshead East, hosted Georgia Gould MP in the borough on Thursday, July 9, as the pair looked to spread the message about the Government’s mission to transform the childhoods of disadvantaged children.
The day began with a tour at Keelman's Way School, on Campbell Park Road, in Hebburn, where the Minister saw the specialist support, intervention areas and outdoor facilities provided for children and young people with additional needs.
Mrs Gould then met with parents, carers, teachers and SEND professionals to discuss the Government's SEND White Paper and the proposed changes to the SEND system.
The visit to the borough continued at Jarrow School, during which a roundtable was held on Mission North East and Mission Coastal.
The programmes aim to bring expert support into classrooms and new opportunities beyond the school gates for North East children.
‘The current SEND system is often too slow’
Ms Osborne has expressed her gratitude to Georgia for visiting the borough and highlighted the need to reform the current SEND system.
The Jarrow MP said: "I am very grateful that Georgia came along to hear directly from SEND parents and professionals, and that she has committed to working with us to ensure the North East and young people with SEND get the help and support we need.
"At Keelman's Way School, Georgia saw first-hand the excellent specialist provision being delivered here, before listening directly to parents, carers, school staff and professionals about their experiences of the SEND system and their concerns around the upcoming White Paper.
"The current SEND system is often too slow, difficult to navigate and exhausting for families.
“We need earlier support, better access to specialist staff, and a system that doesn't force parents to fight for what their children need.
"There are real concerns around protecting legal rights, access to specialist provision, and making sure every child receives support based on their individual needs.
"This was highlighted during our visit to Jarrow School, a fantastic mainstream school where 33% of children have SEND.
“Some of those children are thriving, and we saw how brilliant the school is at providing education for all - but the reality is that this puts a huge strain on the school.”