There is no doubt that we are entering a period of significant change in FE. Qualification reforms, the schools’ and SEND white paper Every Child Achieving and Thriving, and the post-16 education and skills white paper are all aligned with the new Ofsted framework, which places inclusion, equity and opportunities for skills development at the heart of its purpose. For me, having worked in forward-thinking, inclusive and proactive FE settings all my career, the revised SEND policy and legislative changes feel like a welcome approach to provide a level playing field and address some inequities. I fundamentally believe these changes will be highly impactful if their intent is fully realised. Recognising that more young people will receive earlier diagnosis and support from a network of specialists through the ‘experts at hand’ approach, as well as the use of nationally standardised assessment and documentation and the sharing of information between settings, can only benefit young people with SEND. 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