Peckover Primary School welcomes key decision-makers to discuss SEND pressures and inclusive provision

Peckover Primary School, a proud member of Brooke Weston Trust, recently welcomed senior local and national decision-makers to discuss the growing pressures facing SEND provision and the challenges young people can experience in accessing timely support.

The visit included Stephen Moir, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire County Council, Stephen Barclay MP, and Sarah Callaghan, Service Director for Education at Cambridgeshire County Council. Discussions focused on SEND funding pressures, delays in Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), and the importance of sustainable, long-term solutions to support pupils with additional needs.

During the visit, guests were shown Doves, the school’s inclusive provision developed in response to a shortage of specialist places in the local area. Doves supports pupils with increasingly complex needs and reflects the school’s commitment to inclusive education and early intervention.

Kate Kendal, Headteacher at Peckover Primary School, said: “We were pleased to welcome senior leaders into school to see first-hand both the challenges and the positive work taking place to support pupils with SEND. Like many schools across the country, we are seeing increasing demand and complexity of need, often alongside delays in accessing specialist provision.”

She added: “Doves was developed to ensure our pupils are supported to thrive, and I’m incredibly proud of the dedication, care and creativity our staff show every day in giving children the best possible start.”

The visit also provided an opportunity to reflect on the wider national context, with increasing demand for SEND support and the need for sustainable funding to ensure schools and specialist settings can continue to meet pupils’ needs effectively. A further meeting is planned to continue discussions and explore practical next steps.

Peckover Primary School remains committed to advocating for improved outcomes for pupils with SEND and is proud of the role Doves plays in supporting children and families within the local community.

For more information about Peckover Primary School, please visit: www.peckoverprimary.org