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Brighton Today
By the People, for the People
UK Education Secretary Outlines Vision for Inclusive Schools
Calls for collaboration between schools, parents, and government to support students with SEND
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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In a speech at the RISE Inclusion Conference, the UK Education Secretary discussed the inspiring story of a student named Joshua, who overcame challenges with autism to thrive in a mainstream school setting. The Secretary acknowledged the current system's shortcomings in supporting students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and outlined a new vision for inclusive education that prioritizes high standards and community-based support. Key elements include increased funding, training for staff, and a focus on integrating SEND students into their local schools and communities.
Why it matters
The speech highlights the UK government's commitment to reforming the education system to better serve students with SEND. By making inclusion a core part of school performance and providing more resources and support, the goal is to ensure all children, regardless of their needs, can access a high-quality education close to home and as part of their local community.
The details
The Education Secretary shared Joshua's story, describing how he struggled in his first school placement due to a lack of support for his autism, but then thrived after transferring to a school with an on-site SEND unit. The Secretary emphasized that Joshua's success was "despite, not because of, the system" and pledged to overhaul the approach to supporting SEND students. Key reforms include a new system of "universal" and "targeted" support, the creation of inclusion bases in schools, and increased funding for staff training and specialist services.
- The speech was delivered on March 9, 2026 at the RISE Inclusion Conference.
The players
Joshua
A student from Brighton who was diagnosed with autism at age 5 and initially struggled in school, but later thrived after transferring to a school with better support for his needs.
UK Education Secretary
The government minister responsible for education policy in the United Kingdom, who delivered the speech outlining a new vision for inclusive education.
West Blatchington Primary
The school Joshua attended that had an on-site SEND unit, allowing him to successfully integrate into the mainstream classroom.
The Pioneer Academy
The trust that oversees West Blatchington Primary and other schools focused on inclusive education.
What they’re saying
“West Blatch changed my life and for that I'm eternally grateful.”
— Joshua (West Blatchington Primary School)
What’s next
The UK government has launched a consultation on the proposed reforms, inviting feedback from schools, parents, and other stakeholders on how to best design and implement the new inclusive education system.
The takeaway
This speech signals a major shift in the UK's approach to supporting students with special educational needs, moving away from a segregated system and toward one that prioritizes inclusion in mainstream schools. By providing more resources, training, and community-based support, the goal is to ensure all children can access a high-quality education and thrive as part of their local community.
