Wiltshire Council responds to Governments Every Child Achieving and Thriving

Wiltshire Council has welcomed the publication of the Government’s new Every Child Achieving and Thriving: Schools White Paper, which sets out national proposals to improve support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

It also has a wider impact on schools, including improved access to specialist practitioners, enhanced training for teachers, and the creation of a more consistent, early-intervention model across all schools. These changes are designed to make inclusion a routine and expected part of every school’s approach, but they will also require schools to adapt to new expectations around resources, workforce capacity and the delivery of tailored support for pupils with diverse needs.

The council is now reviewing the paper in full and will share more detailed information with families, schools, settings and partners once further guidance has been received from the Department for Education. 

Cllr Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, SEND, Education and Skills, said: “We really welcome the publication of the White Paper, which provides long‑awaited clarity for SEND families and our Local Area partners. I’m genuinely excited to get to work on understanding the detail and beginning the next stage of our journey in Wiltshire. 

“While nothing will change immediately, this gives us a strong foundation to build on the progress we’ve already made together. The focus on mainstream support, early intervention and multi‑agency working aligns perfectly with the priorities we’ve been driving locally, and I’m enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead. 

“Most importantly, we remain absolutely committed to protecting and improving the experience of children and young people with SEND here in Wiltshire—ensuring they get the right support, in the right place, at the right time.”