The new SEND reform plans laid out by the “Every child achieving and thriving” whitepaper emphasises the need for better ‘early intervention strategies’ in schools. The plans aim to reduce EHCPs and increase specialist support in all schools. While some of the reform changes will not be implemented immediately, it’s crucial for schools to update their early intervention provision to reflect the upcoming changes as soon as possible.
The importance of early intervention
Early intervention helps to identify and provide support to children and young people who are specifically at risk of poor educational outcomes. It aims to reduce the effects of a child’s condition on their development and education. Early intervention is important as it enables the prevention of problems that might occur, or strategies to manage problems if they have already developed.
Once identified the needs of the pupil are then addressed on a one-to-one basis or through other forms of therapeutic intervention such as speech and language therapy.
Early intervention means that a child is less likely to fall behind in school or, in some cases, become completely disengaged from the school environment due to being unable to keep up with their peers and are powerless to speak up about their needs.
Early intervention and the SEND reform
The upcoming SEND reform heavily emphasises the importance of early intervention. Focusing on identifying needs earlier through data-driven tools the Department for Education’s (DfE) plans are to strengthen mainstream school support and enhance accountability for schools to provide timely assistance, rather than waiting for crisis points.
In the new reform whitepaper and accompanying consultation document, the government have announced funding for two new services to support this goal:
- “Experts at Hand” Service: This new initiative is backed by £1.8 billion in funding and aims to bring in specialists like speech and language therapists and educational psychologists, supporting children early in mainstream settings.
- Inclusive Mainstream Education: Another £1.6 billion is to be invested in an Inclusive Mainstream Fund over three years that is designed to ensure schools can identify and meet needs immediately.
Invest in an early intervention Specialist
LMP Education has recently launched a brand-new Level 4 Pastoral Support Practitioner apprenticeship to help schools upgrade their Early intervention provision.
A Pastoral Support Practitioner, at times known as an Early intervention Specialist, in a school setting identifies and supports children of all ages with developmental delays, disabilities, or behavioural challenges. They implement tailored strategies, such as Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) or small-group interventions, to improve learning outcomes, boost social-emotional skills, and prevent long-term difficulties.
The Level 4 Pastoral Support Practitioner apprenticeship helps schools strengthen internal capacity to respond to complex needs and demonstrate inclusive practice aligned with Ofsted and sector priorities.
Learn more about the Level 4 Pastoral Support Practitioner apprenticeship programme.
LMP Education’s funded support for schools
LMP Education is an award-winning apprenticeship training provider that offers a range of funded training solutions for schools. We support organisations in upskilling their staff through apprenticeship training programmes, Growth & Skills Levy strategy, and fully funded recruitment services.
If you are interested in learning more about how LMP can support your organisation, book a call with us today!
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