More than a quarter of children in England’s schools have special education or learning difficulties, according to a new survey.
The survey, conducted by the education charity Scope, found that about one in 10 children in the UK are currently in special education.
The report said that while this could be because children need different types of services, the lack of understanding of their needs and limited access to support could be the main reason why.
The charity said that “special education has become a ‘hidden’ issue in the education system” and urged the Government to “focus on improving access to special education for all children”.
Scope’s deputy director, Rachel Lister, said: “In England, almost half of pupils with learning difficulties are now in special needs.”
“While there has been progress, we know many children still struggle with learning disabilities and the challenges of special education.”
Scope’s research found that a quarter (25%) of children with learning problems had at least one form of learning disability.
She added: “As a society, we need to do more to make sure that all children have access to the kind of support and support they need to learn, learn and learn again.”
Find out more about learning difficultiesFind out about special education Find out about learning problemsFind out how to help learn more about special needsFind out where special education services are availableFind out what to expect from your local schoolFind out which special needs services are offeredFind out if your child has learning difficulties