“…The growth of specialist provision is both welcome and necessary at a time of rising demand for SEND support, but the Government failed to acknowledge the change in the character of the independent sector that this trend represents. Many places in special schools are commissioned and funded by local authorities.”

Independent Schools: Tax Changes · 2026-09-17 · Hansard ↗

Record by topic

  1. Learning disability & autism297th of 90514.0

Also active on learning disability & autism

Full learning disability & autism ranking

What they’ve said

  • “…ing in dyslexia, for example, may be found to have trouble learning to read as part of a wider disorder such as ADHD. Under the Bill, a special school that responds to these circumstances by making provision for additional need or needs will be required to make what is known as a material change application.”

    Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill · 2025-09-10 · Read on Hansard ↗

  • “…of the importance of the contribution the independent sector of education makes to providing for children with special educational needs and disabilities. I hope the Government also recognise this important contribution and will join us today in paying tribute to it.”

    Non-Domestic Rating (Multipliers and Private Schools) Bill · 2025-03-18 · Read on Hansard ↗

  • “…My child is autistic. State secondary was an utter disaster. She felt safe and happy. Her heart is now broken”. What are they to say to the head of a small independent school in Derbyshire with 120 pupils, who writes to me: “I am battling to save my life’s work”? How would members of the Government feel if they were fo…”

    Independent School Fees: VAT · 2025-03-13 · Read on Hansard ↗

  • “My Lords, I continue the discussion about independent education. I do so with some temerity in view of the fine speeches made by my infinitely more distinguished noble friends in this debate.”

    Non-Domestic Rating (Multipliers and Private Schools) Bill · 2025-01-29 · Read on Hansard ↗

  • “…n the left of the party—who has come to recognise the value of the wide and diverse provision for children with SEND in the independent sector, which has such a long tradition of excellence in this sphere. Almost 30% of independent schools are special needs schools.”

    Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities · 2024-12-09 · Read on Hansard ↗

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