The Secretary of State for Education, Gillian Keegan MP, visited Edith Weston Academy in Rutland as she announced the latest steps in the Government's plan to support children with special educational needs.

On the visit Gillian went to Edith Weston Academy to see a best practice example of a mainstream school supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Gillian was taken on a tour of the school, including the school's special inclusive space – 'The Nest' – and their early years area, which promotes curiosity in the children.

The tour was taken by headteacher, Penny Rawlings. Trust CEO, Craig Charteris, was also in attendance.

Gillian Keegan MP met staff and students. Image credit: Alicia Kearns MP.

This Conservative Government has committed to delivering 60,000 more special educational needs school places. The Government is also investing record levels into special educational needs provision, at £10.5bn, up by 60% in the last year.

The Government is building over 200 special free schools, including 16 announced just this month.

However, this comes as Rutland's only state funded specialist school closes following a two year battle to keep the facility open. Parents and campaigners continue to fight the diversion made by Rutland County Council, and have recently secured legal funding to support this.

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Following their decision to close The Parks School on the grounds that it was 'not viable', the Rutland County Council Schools Forum have since revealed a 'steep rise in pupils with special needs in Rutland'.

Campaigners opposing the closure of The Parks School outside Oakham Library in late 2023. Image credit: Nub News.

Gillian Keegan MP, the Secretary of State for Education, said: "Education is a key priority for this Government, which is why we are investing a record amount in our schools and colleges. Our plan to support children with special educational needs will transform the experience for thousands of pupils across the country to ensure they receive the education they deserve.

"There is no greater champion for this agenda than Alicia Kearns who invited me to Edith Weston Academy where children with special educational needs and disabilities are so brilliantly supported to thrive and succeed."

Alicia Kearns, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Melton, said: "We are very fortunate to have so many wonderful schools locally, and Edith Weston Academy shows that balancing the needs of SEND children in a mainstream environment is possible with the right support.

"The Government's ambitious plan to support children with special educational needs will ensure that every child in our communities receives the same high-quality education and the very best start in life to go on and succeed."