To investigate the uneven distribution of pupils with SEND across mainstream schools in England, how it has changed over time, the factors shaping it, and its implications for pupils and schools.
The project will include interviews with senior school leaders, Heads of Maths and English, special educational needs coordinators (SENCOs), local authority staff, and parents and carers. It will also involve a national survey of school leaders. Participants will be invited to take part based on an analysis of administrative data.
This is a mixed methods project involving analysis of national pupil database data, interviews and a survey.
The research involves analysing national data to define ‘High SEND’ and ‘Low SEND’ schools, investigating school moves among pupils with SEND, conducting interviews with local authorities and case studies in High SEND schools, and surveying school leaders to understand differences in support and barriers.
The research aims to inform government policy and practice on SEND, funding, and accountability to foster a fairer, more inclusive education system.
The project will run from January 2025 to May 2026.
Participants will be invited to take part based on an analysis of administrative data.
If you would like any additional information or have any further questions, please contact, Matt Walker, NFER Senior Research Manager.
