Skip to main content

AEP General Secretary Elect, Cath Lowther talks to BBC News on SEND and EHCPs

15/12/2022

On Tuesday, the AEP's General Secretary, Cath Lowther was featured on BBC Radio 4 and later on BBC news spoke in response to Ofsted's newly published report. On SEND and Alternative Provision, the report found that many children and young people are facing serious delays and difficulties in accessing support. The report found that only around 65% of pupils placed in unregistered AP by local authorities have a EHCP and that that the pandemic has exacerbated many of the long-term issues within the SEND system.

Cath spoke on the need for a review of education and greater investment in early years and the educational psychology workforce in particular.
The appearances sparked a great deal of publicity and support in the media and on Twitter, with other high profile organisations sharing our view on the need for greater investment and Early Years intervention.

"We need a review of the education system; rethinking the curriculum & ensuring it's inclusive, encompasses all young people...& allows them to thrive"

 

You can listen to Tuesday's Today programme here and can watch the BBC news item on iplayer here.

 

The outcome of the SEND Review consultation is due to be published early in the New Year, and the AEP will be looking closely at its recommendations for supporting children and young people.

The Ofsted report can be read in full here.

Latest News & Activity

Could you be the next Editor of our world-leading journal?
We are looking to appoint an editor for our peer-reviewed journal, Educational Psychology in Practice! The Editor is responsible for producing a journal of the highest quality and leading the Editorial Board. Becoming the editor of a journal is a rewarding and fulfilling experience, offering the opportunity to build networks, develop and promote the research in educational psychology, and be recognised as a leading figure within the academic community.
07/04/2025
News
Curriculum and Assessment Review’s Interim Report : the the current system is 'not delivering for every child
The curriculum and assessment review interim report was published on Tuesday 18 March. Its findings revealed the the current system is 'not delivering for every child' as it sets out its next phase of work. The AEP urges the government to use the final report to deliver bold recommendations that put SEND support at the heart of curriculum and assessment reform in the UK to ensure every student receives the support they need to thrive.
21/03/2025
News
The problem with Education, Health & Care Plans: AEP President comments in Schools Week
Schools Week today published a collection of articles relating to issues in the SEND system in England and Education, Health & Care Plans. They spoke to AEP President, David Collingwood about his experience of working with EHCP plans and the serious impact of the shortage of Educational Psychologists (EPs) in Local Authorities.
07/03/2025
News
Audit Scotland has published a new briefing on Additional Support for Learning.
Audit Scotland has published a new report on Additional Support for Learning. The report raises concerns about the widening attainment gap in education, inconsistent data collection, and shortages in staff and resources affecting both pupils and education staff.
03/03/2025
News
View all the latest News & Activity

Enter a search term:

CLOSE