Jersey’s current system designed to support children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has been deemed “not sufficiently effective” according to an independent review. Review by external experts took place over a six-month period. They wanted to investigate what the current framework for SEND services in their region looked like and what needed to be done to improve …
The holistic audit, which comprised 20 visits to schools around the island, provided an invaluable opportunity for reviewers to engage with technical staff, student staff, and the broader engaged student body. Crucially, the review included consultations with 276 parents and carers, which gives it a solid base for its conclusions.
The most critical issue to come out of FTA’s report are leadership failures, with service and delivery for customers a close second. The report highlights the need for a more coordinated approach to address the diverse requirements of children and young people with SEND.
Rob Ward, Jersey’s Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning responded to the findings in a public statement. He told those that participated that this review represents a turning point for Jersey’s education system.
“This review is a turning point. It gives us a clear roadmap for improvement while recognising the strengths and dedication of our schools. Inclusion is a shared responsibility and we are committed to building a truly inclusive education system for Jersey.” – Rob Ward, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning
Ward’s remarks make particularly resonant the government’s stated desire to improve educational support for vulnerable communities. The review’s conclusions will inform subsequent policy decisions. From the superintendents’ association’s perspective, these policies would start a welcome shift towards promoting positive school climates and inclusive school environments.
This highly critical analysis of their implementation process has provided an international template for the education sector in Jersey to move forward with further reforms. We hope that the amendments listed above will go a long way to ensuring quality education for all children and young people with SEND.
