Giving evidence to the Education Select Committee on Tuesday, Sir Martyn told MPs that government proposals for the inspectorate to undertake spot checks on schools’ safeguarding arrangements would cost £45 million a year to deliver.
Instead, he indicated the funding would be better spent on improving SEND provision in light of the pressures on public spending.
“[With] tightening public finances, I think it's right that we ask ourselves, 'Is this the best spending of the money?', he told the committee.
“If you said to me now, 'Do you think children safeguarding in schools is the burning bush?' My answer would be no. We do not see safeguarding as the biggest issue in schools. I would say that, by far, the needs of SEND children is a much bigger need.”
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
