The Department for Education has admitted it approved council SEND reform plans despite gaps in post-16 provision, claiming they met the criteria set out in its own guidance. Alasdaire Duerden, the DfE’s post-16 SEND lead, told delegates at the Association of Colleges annual conference this week that officials were now asking themselves whether the guidance used to judge the plans was “strong enough on post-16”. He said the next version of the guidance, expected early next year, will put more emphasis on post-16 education. Become a member for unlimited access to FE Week Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism on FE and skills, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits. subscribe If you have an account, please login. Sign in