SEND transport

The Rising Cost of SEND Transport

PAG Staff2024, alternative provision, Article, free schools, Governance, Independent schools, Inequalities, Local Authorities, Schools, SEND

The Rising Cost of SEND Transport In recent years, councils across England have faced a significant financial challenge that has largely flown under the radar: the skyrocketing cost of providing school transport for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). A comprehensive investigation by the BBC has laid bare the extent of this issue, revealing a nearly doubled expenditure within …

SEND deficits

SEND Deficits Prompt Funding Redirect

PAG Staff2024, Article, free schools, Government reporting, Independent schools, Inequalities, Local Authorities, Schools, SEND

SEND Deficits Prompt Funding Redirect In an unprecedented move highlighting the depth of the financial crisis facing Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) funding in the UK, more than 20 councils have received ministerial approval to redirect a total of £67 million from their schools’ budgets. This decision marks a significant shift from previous years, where such requests were largely denied, …

Title reads 'A PAG report on establishing children's homes

Children’s Homes: A PAG Report

PAG Staff2024, Article, Case Studies, Independent schools, Local Authorities, Policy, Schools, wellbeing

Children’s Homes:A PAG Report The landscape of children’s social care in England is evolving, with the government committing significant resources to expand and improve children’s home placements. Using publicly available data and studies, and our own experience and expertise, PAG has produced a report titled ‘Establishing Children’s Homes’, looking into what it takes to successfully establish and operate a children’s home …

Independent Schools VAT

Independent Schools VAT – SEND Exemption?

PAG Staff2024, Article, Independent schools, Inequalities, Policy, Schools, SEND

Independent Schools VAT – SEND Exemption? In recent discussions within the UK’s educational and political landscapes, a crucial debate has emerged concerning the application of VAT on school fees, specifically regarding provisions for special needs education (SEND) within independent schools.Independent Schools VAT Row?  As of January and April 2023, contrasting positions have been highlighted by Bridget Phillipson in the House of Commons …