Government launches SEND training materials for teachers

The Government has launched new training materials to help teachers and support staff better support children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Developed by Ambition Institute, the free materials are designed for schools and post-16 settings and can be incorporated into existing training days or used throughout the year.

They cover practical techniques including breaking instructions into smaller steps, pre-teaching specialist vocabulary and providing additional opportunities for pupils to practise.

Separate online training developed by Dingley’s Promise will support early years staff with inclusive practices, including the use of visual timetables and adapting environments to reduce unnecessary noise.

The materials form part of the Government’s £200m investment in teacher training for supporting children and young people with SEND.

Further resources are due to be published in January and April 2027, followed by fully funded training courses for teachers, leaders and support staff from September.

One in three teachers surveyed said they wanted more training on supporting children with SEND, while a quarter of teaching assistants surveyed said insufficient training was a barrier to providing effective support.

Georgia Gould, Minister for School Standards, said: “Every child and young person deserves the chance to thrive, whatever their needs, and that starts with brilliant teaching.