The statistics, gathered by a Freedom of Information request, show there are 153 special education needs co-ordinators (Sencos) and learning support assistants employed in young offender institutions (YOIs) catering for 15- to 17-year-olds.
That equates to an average of 11 specialist SEN staff in each YOI.
Jenny Talbot, programme manager for learning difficulties and disabilities in prison at the Prison Reform Trust, said appropriate numbers of staff should be trained to work with young people with SEN.
She said: "If up to 75 per cent of young offenders have SEN, then 75 per cent of staff should be trained in SEN."
Martin Skeats, director of secure accommodation at the Youth Justice Board (YJB), said the YJB and the National Offender Management Service are reviewing the training of staff in YOIs.
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