In 2019, the government announced an additional investment of £700 million into special needs education to ensure that children and young people are provided with the buildings and facilities that are right for them. However, despite the improved investment, councils continue to face immense pressures in providing care and support and educational provision for children and young people with special needs and disabilities.

Bringing together knowledge, experience and expertise from across the public and private sector to explore opportunities to build on experience and improve the provision of purpose-built SEND schools across the UK is at the heart of this white paper. Our objective for this research is to work collaboratively to enhance the pathway for SEND school design and delivery so that it improves the lives of the young people, teachers, carers and families. We want to start a conversation which shares insights, sparks innovations, and encourages collaborations.