ISC CEO: Independent special schools 'provide quality education and care'

The government is set to impose a profit cap on independent schools for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), as part of sweeping reforms to the sector. The Schools White Paper – due to be published next week – is expected to include proposals to "legislate to ensure that a reasonable price is paid for a placement". A cap would ease financial pressure on local authorities and reduce the amount of taxpayers' money funnelled to private companies. However, there are concerns that the move could force some independent schools to close, reducing options for parents and children.

Responding to the news, Ms Robinson cautioned against "classifying all high-cost placements as low value". She said independent special schools "provide quality education and care, giving young people with SEND equity of opportunity in a way that would not be possible elsewhere. We will defend the right of these pupils to have an education that allows them to thrive, as well as defending the independence that makes that education possible." She added that the ISC would await the White Paper before commenting fully on the government's plans.