Transformation of SEND Reforms: National Perspective

1. Implementation of the SEND Reforms – a national perspectiveA Time for Change – Working TogetherWaltham Forest Parent Carer Forum Conference Tuesday 17 March 2015 André Imich, SEND Professional Adviser, DfE

2. The New World of SEN So………….. • How has the six months been? • What have you noticed that’s been different?

3. Cultural change: putting children and young people and parents at the centre Children, young people and parents are part of a joined up system, co-designed around their needs Education Health and Care Plan is holistic, co-produced and is focused on outcomes Where disagreements happen, can be resolved early and amicably, with the option of appeal to Tribunal Extending choice and control over their support

4. Legislative change - The new SEN system 2. All duties apply to all state-funded schools academies, colleges 1. Co-production with children, young people and parents 3. Coordinated assessment; 0-25 Education, Health and Care Plan 8. Applies to CYP detained in youth custody 4. LA, health and care services to commission services jointly 7. Offer of a personal budget; more choice and control 5. Clear, transparent local offer of services 6. Statutory protections for 16-25s; focus on preparing for adulthood

5. LA Implementation Survey Spring 2015: SEN Reforms - Understanding and engagement High ratings: • Parent Carer Forums • Maintained schools Low ratings • Youth Justice partners • Adult health services

6. LA implementation survey (Spring Term 2015)

7. What the Local Offer is 7

10. Schools - Publication of information • Provision in mainstream and special schools covered by almost all LA local offers. • All schools, including special schools, must publish their SEN Information Report on their website • LA local offer must include information about “in area education provision” – e.g. education settings (early years, schools and Post 16), where to find schools’ SEN Information reports and SEN services including early years.

11. Quality local offer • Developed with parents, children and young people • Meets the legal requirements • Accessible • Has a feedback mechanism • “Provides me with the information I am looking for easily” • “Looks good!”

12. Quality EHC assessments and plans: • EHCP assessment pathway is compliant with the Code • Enables families to be active contributors – co-produce • Is timely - 20 weeks • Format follows the Code

13. Ofsted recommendation (Dec 2014) • DfE, DoH and NHS England - considering accountability measures to monitor impact of reforms. • Complement local accountability arrangements • Inspection should be: − proportionate and risk-based − developed with YP, parents and carers, providers and services, LAs and healthcare services − focused on identifying need and improving outcomes in education, health and social care.

14. Accountability model EXTERNAL INSPECTION (Ofsted, CQC)

15. Transferring to the new system https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/348591/Transition_to_the_new_0_to_25_special_educational_needs_and_disability_system_statutory_guidance_for_local_authorities.pdf

16. Schools play a key role The LA is responsible It’s an EHC needs assessment For statements, max 14 weeks ISs can help families and YP The Transition/Transfer process Young person can ask for an assessment For LDAs, max 20 weeks Where agreed, can use existing advice No child to lose out Statements by April 18, LDAs by Sept 16

17. Early National Implementation Issues Leadership and developing the workforce Ensuring there is genuine, and continuing, co-production Moving towards the full vision of the local offer. Ensuring all agencies play their role Transition from statements to Education Health Care Plans

18. “I was very impressed with the meeting last week, it’s probably the first time I've walked out of a meeting with someone from the LEA and actually felt my child's views were listened to.” “We felt very included in the whole process and as if everyone was really interested in the best outcome for (name of child). I particularly appreciated having phone calls and contact with a named person.” “We were able to discuss and value the positive side of my son” “Having opportunity to meet with key people together rather than many separate meetings.  Support from parent partnership was immense and school and others worked well together” Family experiences of the new system

19. The journey towards further improvement.....… • Co-production • Local offer • Developing post-16 provision • Wider school improvement agenda and SEN support • Quality assessment leading to quality EHCP • Advice, guidance and support • Measuring impact • Workforce development • Leadership

20. In conclusion……… Nationally Challenges are evident – commitment to finding solutions Advice, guidance and support is available and continuing Need to maintain focus on co-production Many families already reporting improvements Development of accountability framework Evolution not revolution