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Forest School: Nature's Haven for SEND Children
15 Jun
Summary
- Forest school offers vital support for SEND children struggling in mainstream settings.
- Parents report significant challenges in securing adequate support for their children.
- Surrey Council invests £211 million to enhance SEND support capacity.
Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are reportedly not receiving adequate support within mainstream education, according to the founder of Huckleberries forest school in Elstead, Surrey. This sentiment is echoed by parents who describe a constant struggle to secure necessary provisions.
The forest school model is presented as a beneficial alternative, allowing children to connect with people and nature in ways not possible in traditional settings. However, the founder notes a significant increase in demand for such specialized provisions, leading to children falling through the support gaps, which negatively impacts their mental health.
Surrey County Council acknowledges the challenges and is investing £211 million to increase its capacity for SEND support. Despite this investment, the council previously faced formal sanctions in 38 SEND tribunal hearings within a five-month period, and headteachers have expressed diminishing trust in its services.
Parents have shared positive experiences, noting their children's growth in confidence at the forest school before transitioning to specialist settings. The council reports that 9% of children in the county now hold Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), indicating both increased demand and better identification of needs.
