Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of SEND delivery in rural areas.

For too long the education and care system has not meet the needs of all children, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

This government’s ambition is that all children and young people with SEND or in alternative provision, including children in rural areas, receive the right support to succeed in their education and as they move into adult life. The department will be focusing on a community-wide approach to improve inclusivity and expertise in mainstream schools and to ensure that special schools cater to those with the most complex needs. My right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Education, and I will work with families and education and care experts to deliver this, in the best interests of all children.