New free SEND and inclusion training has been launched to help teachers and teaching assistants in mainstream schools develop their knowledge and confidence when supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
The training has been developed by Ambition Institute for the Department for Education and is part of the Government’s wider plans to create a more inclusive education system.
What SEND training is available?
Schools can now access a range of free training materials covering SEND and inclusive teaching.
The training currently covers:
- An introduction to SEND reforms and inclusion
- What inclusive teaching means in practice
- Inclusive teaching and areas of development
- Speech, language and communication
The resources are designed to give teachers and teaching assistants practical strategies they can use to support pupils in the classroom.
How can schools use the training?
The training is designed to be delivered within schools by an in-house facilitator.
Most sessions take around an hour and schools can choose to run them individually or combine several sessions as part of an INSET or training day.
Schools can also adapt the resources to meet the needs of their staff and setting.
The training package includes editable presentation slides, facilitator guidance, evidence summaries, activities, case studies and practical teaching strategies.
Schools are encouraged to use the training but it is not mandatory.
What other SEND training is coming?
The resources available now are only the first stage of the new SEND and inclusion training programme.
Further training materials are due to be released in January and April 2027, expanding the support available to schools.
Upcoming training will cover:
- Social and emotional development
- Executive function
- Motor and physical development
- Sensory development
- Explicit instruction
- Scaffolding
- Feedback
- Positive relationships
- Calm classroom environments
- Adaptations and additional support
The Government has also announced plans for fully funded training courses from September 2027 for teachers, school leaders and support staff.
This means schools can start using the resources available now while continuing to develop their staff's SEND knowledge as further training becomes available.
What does this mean for schools?
For Headteachers, SENCOs and school leaders, the new resources provide an opportunity to review existing SEND training and identify areas where staff may benefit from additional development.
The materials are free and flexible, which means schools can choose the sessions that are most relevant to their pupils, staff and existing SEND provision.
Supporting pupils with SEND
Training staff is an important part of developing inclusive practice. Having experienced SEND professionals in place can also help schools provide the right support for individual pupils.
Flourish Education works with schools across the West Midlands to provide experienced SEND Teachers, SEND Teaching Assistants and 1:1 support staff for day-to-day, long-term and permanent roles.
Looking for additional SEND support in your school? Contact Flourish Education to discuss your staffing requirements with your local recruitment consultant.
Email your vacancy
Send your vacancy to us and a member of our team will be in touch.
Email us
Call us
To find out more, call our friendly team today.
Call us
Ellis Husband