Delivering SEND Training for the Schools of Bournemouth East

Published: 19 January 2026

A new £200 million government initiative will mean that schools in Bournemouth East will receive formal special educational needs and disability (SEND) training. 

This is not just brilliant news, but the result of this constituency’s participation and effort. 

Over the last few months, I’ve held roundtables at Avonwood Primary School, as well as with the Umbrella Group and Beer and an Ear for Dads with Neurodivergent Kids. 

In November, I also hosted Education Minister Josh MacAlister at Epiphany School, so that he could hear from Bournemouth families and professionals what help was needed. 

A major issue that so often came up was the lack of support for teachers and the real need for SEND training in our schools. 

Let me take the chance to thank the parents, carers, teachers and other professionals who have attended these roundtables.

Your voices and your help have led to this policy enhancement and the change it will bring about. 

Thank you. 

The funding will provide SEND and inclusion training for staff in nurseries, schools and colleges to identify a child with a need for help faster and support more pupils in mainstream schools.

New materials and dedicated support for teaching assistants and early years practitioners will join a new expectation in the SEND Code of Practice that all staff receive SEND training.

This announcement builds on the landmark £3 billion investment to deliver around 50,000 more inclusive spaces in mainstream schools. 

Both myself and the Government are committed to building services that work for every child. 

I’m glad to be able to do so with the help of the people and families of Bournemouth East.