Education Secretary Gillian Keegan says she is “satisfied that the council is failing to perform to an adequate standard” in its support for SEND children and their families since a critical inspection report three years ago.
The joint inspection by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission found “significant areas of weakness” in it SEND provision. Inspectors raised concerns that the council was blighted by a “blame culture” and “lack of urgency” to improve. They also warned that staff had a “poor understanding” of SEND reforms.
High staff turnover and leaders being distracted by reorganisation at the council, which was formed in 2019 from a merger of unitary authorities in Bournemouth and Poole as well as the non-metropolitan district of Christchurch, were among other concerns raised.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
