News

Keep up to date with all of the latest news, headlines and features from across the SEND sector.

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News listing

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New research challenges assumptions about inclusion in post-16 education

September 2026

A new research report from Natspec is calling for a rethink of how inclusion is understood in education, arguing that it should be defined by the quality of a young person's experience rather than the type of setting they attend.

Makaton users take centre stage in new community song for Makaton International Awareness Day

September 2026

Makaton International Awareness Day theme, Together, has been used to co-create a song that celebrates communication, creativity and connection, bringing the Makaton community together through music, signs and shared experiences.

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Free Online Training in Vision Impairment

September 2026

Many education professionals may have limited experience supporting children and young people with vision impairment. To help build confidence and understanding, Thomas Pocklington Trust is offering a free online training course.

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Exploring food choices in specialist settings – new research

September 2026

Supporting students in special and alternative provision schools to develop safe, healthy eating behaviours can be a challenge for educators.

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New report highlights risks for vulnerable children when suitable education is delayed

September 2026

A new independent report, The Cost of Waiting: How Delays in SEND Provision Increase Risk for Vulnerable Children, examines what happens when children with SEND are unable to access suitable education for prolonged periods.

School & Academies Show, Birmingham NEC 18-19 November 2026. Mapping the future of your school. Plan. Procure. Prosper. 18th & 19th November 2026. Co-located with edtech summit, SEND conference and independent schools conference.

SAASHOW Birmingham: Where School Leaders Come to Shape the Future of Education

September 2026

School Leaders Invited to Explore the Future of SEND at the UK's Leading Education Event

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DfE publishes insights into what works for autistic learners, and those with SEMH needs

August 2026

A rapid evidence review commissioned by the Department for Education examined the effectiveness of behavioural and social communication interventions designed to improve outcomes for these learners.

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New guidance around suspensions and exclusions published

August 2026

The Department for Education (DfE) has published updated statutory guidance on suspensions and permanent exclusions, which comes into force on 26 July 2026.

nasen responds to the Prime Minister’s education reforms for 14-year-olds

July 2026

nasen welcomes the Prime Minister’s ambition to reform education so that more routes are valued equally.
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Turn Everyday Technology into Inclusive Teaching

May 2026

nasen and Concero have partnered to deliver exclusive accessibility training for school staff, helping you make the most of the tools already available in your school.

New research suggests wellbeing challenges fuelling persistent school absence rates

July 2026

A new report from the National Foundation for Educational Research shows that deteriorating pupil wellbeing is likely to be a major factor influencing school attendance, with increased social media use & online bullying linked to the decline.

Updated Academy Trust Handbook published

July 2026

The Department for Education (DfE) has published the Academy Trust Handbook 2026, introducing a series of changes aimed at improving transparency, financial oversight and inclusion across academy trusts.


Education Otherwise Than at School (EOTAS) Consultation Launched

July 2026

A new consultation is encouraging the sharing of views on proposed reforms to Education Otherwise Than at School (EOTAS) arrangements, as part of the Government’s wider programme of SEND reform.



New research and practical guidance around music education in autism resource bases

July 2026

A new guide from Live Music Now highlights the important role that music can play in supporting autistic pupils in autism resource bases (ARBs) and offers practical, evidence-informed strategies for education professionals.


DfE launches consultations on the future of early years funding and teaching.

July 2026

The Department for Education (DfE) is seeking views on two consultations to help shape the future of early years provision in England, focusing on funding arrangements and reforms to early years teacher training and status.

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Helping learners shape their experience through “The Big Future” survey

July 2026

The Children’s Commissioner for England is inviting children and young people to share their views through “The Big Future,” the largest survey of its kind on childhood experiences, aspirations and concerns.

New EYFS Framework introduces stronger safeguarding requirements

July 2026

Early years providers in England will need to prepare for a series of important changes to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework, with updated guidance coming into force on 1 September 2026.

Education Sector Urged to Shape England’s New Mental Health Strategy

July 2026

Education professionals are being encouraged to contribute to a government call for evidence that will help shape a new cross-government mental health strategy for England.

DfE Consults on New SEND Funding Model for Mainstream Schools

July 2026

The Department for Education (DfE) has launched a consultation on plans to change how funding for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is distributed in mainstream schools in England.

New Free Resource Helps Schools Turn Inclusion Policy into Practice

July 2026

A free resource developed by the University of Cambridge, is offering education professionals practical support to strengthen inclusion and belonging across mainstream schools.