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Improved support for your child or young person with SEND in Kent schools - Communities of Schools

We’re making changes to how schools in Kent support children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). These changes are all about making sure your child gets the right help at the right time so they can learn, feel included, and thrive.

What are Communities of Schools?

Communities of Schools are groups of schools working together with local services like health professionals to support you and your family. They focus on inclusion, early help, and prevention. There are 53 Communities of Schools across Kent, each linked to NHS Primary Care Networks.

Why things are changing

More children need extra help in school, and the old system wasn’t keeping up. The new approach will:

  • give your child support based on their individual needs
  • help schools get the right help faster, with less paperwork
  • provide expert advice and training to schools
  • encourage schools to share ideas and learn from each other.

These changes should lead to better outcomes for children and young people, where they will have the chance to learn, feel included and do well regardless of where they live.

Who the Communities of Schools will work with

To make sure resources and support are used well, communities of schools will work closely with:

  • NHS care networks
  • SEND professionals
  • The Professional Resources Group
  • four area boards that oversee quality.

How this new approach will help your child

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Schools supporting each other: they will share ideas and tools to help children learn and grow.
  • Less paperwork: teachers can spend more time focusing on your child in their class.
  • Faster access to help: your child will get the support they need from the right people and at the right time.
  • Protected SEND funding: funding is in place to support children with SEND in 2025 and 2026.
  • Stronger partnerships with families: the council and schools will work closely with you to support your child, especially during key transitions like moving to secondary school.

Does your child need an EHCP?

Your child does not need an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to receive extra help or resources.

How you can find out what support is available

Every school should have a SEND Information Report on their website. This explains what support is available.

You can also speak to the school’s SENDCo (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator) for more information.

How schools can access support and funding

Schools will work together in their Communities of Schools to understand what children need and request resources or support. This support may benefit more than one child with similar needs. This new system is designed to be quicker, fairer, and more responsive to your child’s needs.

When these changes will start

The new approach starts in September 2025 and will be fully in place by September 2027.

What role you will play

You will play a very important role. Schools will always involve you before making changes to your child’s support. They’re committed to working with you to help your child feel happy, supported, and ready to succeed.