How COVID Funding Has Supported Pupils with SEND to Thrive in Schools

I’m Dan Grace, Director at Uniform Education. At Uniform, our goal is to empower schools to ensure that every pupil, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), receives the support they need to thrive academically and socially. Over the past few years, the impact of the pandemic has been profound, particularly on children’s education and mental health. However, the government’s COVID recovery funding has been pivotal in helping schools address these challenges, particularly for pupils with SEND.

Through dedicated funding, many schools have been able to prioritise interventions and employ additional specialist staff to support pupils with SEND. These resources have played a critical role in helping children regain lost ground in their education and return to the developmental levels they should be at.

Supporting Pupils with SEND Post-Pandemic

The disruption caused by the pandemic has left many pupils with gaps in learning, increased anxiety, and challenges in adjusting to routine. For pupils with SEND, these challenges were often magnified. Schools have utilised COVID funding to provide:

• Targeted Interventions: Schools have introduced structured, evidence-based interventions tailored to meet individual pupils' needs, helping them catch up on essential skills such as literacy and numeracy.

• Specialist Support Staff: The funding has enabled the recruitment of additional LSAs, SEN Teachers, and other specialists, ensuring pupils with SEND receive the 1:1 or small-group support they require.

• Mental Health and Well-being Initiatives: Many schools have invested in resources such as mental health counsellors or training for staff to address the emotional and social needs of pupils with SEND.

• Enhanced Training for Staff: Teachers and LSAs have benefitted from training on how to support pupils with SEND effectively, equipping them with strategies to address the unique challenges posed by the pandemic.

The Role of Uniform Education

At Uniform Education, we understand the importance of ensuring that schools have the right staff to deliver these critical interventions. We’ve worked closely with our school clients to recruit experienced and passionate professionals who can step into roles and make an immediate impact. Our consultants have a deep understanding of SEND needs and are committed to finding the perfect match between schools and candidates.

The pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, but it has also provided an opportunity to refocus on the needs of pupils with SEND. We are proud to have played a part in supporting schools during this vital period of recovery. If you’re a school leader looking for expert staffing solutions or a dedicated SEND professional seeking your next role, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Together, we can ensure that every child receives the support they deserve to reach their full potential.​

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