The August 3rd 2009 Brian Lamb Report to Ed Balls Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, has called for legislative change in two important areas:
- To provide a right of appeal for parents if a local authority decides not to amend a statement after a review
- To place a specific duty on Ofsted to report on the quality of the education provided for disabled children and children with SEN
This emphasis comes from Lamb’s belief that the education system as a whole is insufficiently focused on objectives and outcomes for disabled children and children with SEN, described as a long-standing and deep-seated cultural problem that has its origins in an era before all children were entitled to education in mainstream schools. The focus is on specific issues relating to the quality of statements and inspections, where outcomes and objectives interact with systems for accountability and the statutory stages of the SEN system.
The report evidences that there is wide variation in the quality of parents’ experience. It suggests that where practice is excellent it should be celebrated and shared widely, but where it falls short, systems should be in place which hold both schools and local authorities accountable.
Members should be aware that the new Ofsted inspection arrangements that will be in place from September 2009 are an important part of the improving accountability, but are viewed by the Inquiry to be insufficient to secure the necessary improvements. The Secretary of State has responded that the government will seek to amend legislation at the next appropriate opportunity to give parents a right of appeal following a review of a statement and to place a specific requirement on Ofsted’s Chief Inspector to report on provision for children with SEN and disabilities within schools.
NOTE: As you will be aware Ofsted has recently changed the schools inspection framework. The government states that the new duty will underpin these changes to provide reassurance to parents.
The Final Report from the Lamb Inquiry is due September 2009. NAHT will update members in the autumn.
If you have any queries on the above please contact Jan Myles: janm@naht.org.uk
