The value of additional facilities at schools to maximise opportunities for successful inclusion and integration of all pupils
Inclusive education, where children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are successfully included in mainstream educational settings (ideally, in their locality), offers a range of benefits for both children with special needs and their peers. Here are some key advantages:
1. Statutory Guidance:
There are increasing requirements for additional capacity at specialist schools and alternative provision schools, as well as in SEN Units or Resourced Provision at mainstream schools. Children can stay in local education provision closer to home for longer if additional spaces can be created or adapted to meet their specific needs.
2. Social Integration:
Promotes Inclusivity: Inclusion enables children with SEND to be part of a diverse and inclusive community. It fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance among for all .
Enhances Social Skills: Interacting with peers without SEND can help children with SEND develop social skills, communication skills, and positive relationships, which are crucial for their overall development.
3. Academic Progress:
Individualised Support: Mainstream education with appropriate support systems increase opportunities for successful integration for children with SEND . This can include Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), personalised learning plans, accommodations, and additional resources to address their specific learning requirements.
Access to Varied Resources: Inclusion provides access to a wider range of educational resources, teaching methods, and extracurricular activities, contributing to a more comprehensive learning experience.
4. Positive Peer Influence:
Role Modelling: Children with SEND benefit from observing and interacting with neurotypical peers, providing positive role models for behaviour, language, and social skills.
Enhanced Communication Skills: Interaction with typically developing peers can encourage better communication skills and language development in children with SEND.
5. Self-Esteem and Confidence:
Feelings of Belonging: Inclusion (particularly in their local school) fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance, contributing to higher self-esteem and confidence among children with SEND
Recognition of Abilities: When children with SEND needs are included, their unique abilities and strengths are more likely to be recognised and appreciated by their peers and teachers.
6. Preparation for Real-World Inclusion:
Community Integration: Mainstream inclusion prepares children with SEND for real-world scenarios where they will interact with individuals of various abilities. This helps in developing skills for future community integration and employment.
7. Reduced Stigma and Stereotyping:
Promotes Understanding: Having children with SEND in mainstream classrooms promotes understanding and acceptance, reducing stigma and stereotypes associated with disabilities.
Cultivates Empathy: Interacting with peers with diverse abilities fosters empathy and compassion, creating a more inclusive and tolerant school environment.
8. Parental Involvement:
Inclusive Community: Inclusion encourages parents of children with SEND needs to be actively involved in the school community, fostering a sense of partnership with teachers and other parents.
In summary, mainstream education for children with SEND promotes social integration, academic progress, positive peer influence, self-esteem, and prepares them for real-world inclusion. It also contributes to a more inclusive and accepting society by reducing stigma and fostering empathy among all members of the community.