The Dame Christine Lenehan and Mark Geraghty independent review of residential schools and colleges, “Good Intentions, Good Enough?” has been published today (November 6).
The review by Dame Christine Lenehan examines the experiences and outcomes of children and young people in residential schools and colleges. The full report, and the government response to it, can be downloaded below:
- Lenehan Report: Good intentions, Good enough?
- Government Response from Justine Greening
- New guidance regarding LA visits to children and young people in residential settings
The report acknowledges good practice and says more could be done to improve local provision, which too often fails leaving children and young people having to fight to receive the support that they need.
Natspec has welcomed the vision set out in the independent review into residential special schools and colleges, in which most children and young people will be able to access support and quality education locally, with specialist residential education recognised as the best option for a small number of young people.
Clare Howard, Chief Executive of Natspec, said, “We welcome the review and are keen to work with the Department of Education, Local Authorities and others to plan for a future where all young people have access to high quality education or training and care, which meets their individual needs and supports their aspirations. The majority of placements at Natspec colleges are local day placements, and our members have much to offer in helping LAs ensure that more young people can have their needs met locally. Regional specialist providers who provide for the small number of residential students, can also support through outreach and training services”
Natspec is pleased that the report recognises the place for residential specialist education, and that it can “transform the lives of some of the most vulnerable children and young people”, and “can offer extended learning opportunities, respite for families, opportunities to learn independence skills and accommodation for those with social care needs”.
“To plan effectively and develop trust between LAs and providers, we need solutions that integrate cost-effective residential options for the very small numbers whose complex combination of needs are so low-incidence that regional or national residential provision is the most appropriate, (around 1,200 young people) and for those entering their late teenage years and early adulthood, where the development of independence skills, away from the family home, is critical to their futures” said Ms Howard.
“Effective regional and national planning for the young people who fall into these two groups could avoid many of the delays and failings of the system highlighted in the report, save the costs of tribunals, and lead to less conflict.
Natspec’s evidence to the review, highlighting best practice in residential colleges, and the full response to the final report, can be downloaded from the box below.
Evidence to the Lenehan Review