Blog Archives - Natspec

Key facts 2025: data and trends for SEND in FE

The latest key facts report examines data on EHCPs, growth trends, placement patterns, funding, and the outlook for specialist provision.

What’s the future for personal, social and employability (PSE) skills qualifications?

Ruth Perry, Senior Policy Manager at Natspec, explains why the government’s proposed national standards for PSE qualifications are not the best way to improve outcomes for Entry and level 1 learners, and proposes an alternative approach.

Assistive Technology – address the complex and the basic

Generic and specialist Assistive Technology provision needs to be on offer to ensure all learners get what they need.

Peer learning – what’s in it for you and me?

Exchanging ideas with peers in a friendly non-judgmental setting is invaluable. At Natspec, we want to encourage more staff in colleges to connect at Peer Exchange Week.

Investing in supported internships

Julie Pointer from NDTi summarises the new government-funded programme to boost supported internships.

High Needs in FE – the key facts

Read Natspec’s analysis of the key facts and figures for specialist FE in 2022

Natspec Student Voice Parliament – May 2022

National Star College hosted May’s parliament, where students spoke about their experience of transitions, educating local communities and learner-led research.

Natspec Highlights February 2022

Sharing good news and highlights from across the specialist further education sector.

Natspec welcomes Nadhim Zahawi as new Education Secretary

Clare Howard comments on the appointment

The “safety valve” intervention programme – how lessons need to be adapted for post-16

Natspec responds to a new set of case studies looking at reducing the deficit from high needs spending.

Report reveals anger and frustration at quality of post-16 information

Two thirds of parents rate the quality of advice on post-16 options for young people with SEND as poor.

Natspec Highlights December 2020

Sharing news highlights from across the specialist FE sector, including new in-house enterprises and incredible student achievements.