Government approves Barnet’s SEND and Alternative Provision Reform Plan

Barnet Council’s Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP) Reform Plan has been approved by government.

The plan sets out the council’s ambition for an inclusive, responsive and sustainable SEND system, with children and young people, parent carers, schools and settings, and wider partners at the forefront of the proposals.

Barnet has 8,300 SEND pupils, and 5,044 of them have an Education, Health and Care Plan.

Councillor Pauline Coakley Webb, Cabinet Member for Family Friendly Barnet, said:

“We are delighted that our SEND and AP Reform Plan has now been approved, marking an important milestone as we move forward into implementation.

We are now progressing the actions within the plan and working collaboratively across the local area to translate our priorities into meaningful change.

Importantly, this is an evolving plan rather than a fixed document. The national SEND landscape continues to develop, and we will ensure that our approach reflects emerging government guidance, policy, and new legislation as these become available.”

The Department for Education recognised that Barnet’s plan has a clear, reform-aligned vision, a strong understanding of local needs, and a delivery approach focused on mainstream inclusion, earlier intervention, improved outcomes, family confidence and financial sustainability.

The council will continue to work alongside Barnet’s communities to review priorities, adapt approaches and ensure that resources and services are focused where they can make the greatest difference in the borough.

To read a full summary of Barnet’s SEND and AP Reform Plan, please visit: https://www.barnetlocaloffer.org.uk/blog_articles/5720-government-approves-barnet-s-send-and-alternative-provision-reform-plan