Quotation for the Strategic Review of High Needs Provision for Children with SEND Consultancy Report

Tender description

The Department of Education has allocated funding to local authorities for the purpose of carrying out strategic reviews of High Needs provision. In common with many areas Blackpool is experiencing significant pressures on High Needs budgets as a result of increasing numbers of pupils accessing special schools, the Pupil Referral Unit and out of area placements. Blackpool Council is therefore seeking applications from interested organisations to carry out a review in respect of provision for Blackpool pupils. The review should consider the effectiveness and value for money of the full range of provision both locally and out of area. The review should cover provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (as defined by the Code of Practice 2014), including those whose barriers to learning are social and emotional mental health difficulties. The review should include an evaluation of the extent of inclusive practice in mainstream settings and special resource units as well as evaluating whether there is a correct balance of local provision in specialist settings. The successful applicant will need to demonstrate recent practical experience of research and/or consultancy within strategic education in specialist and mainstream settings. A final report will be required by 1st September 2017.