Exploring the Issue of Parental Choice and School Placement for Pupils With a Statement of Special Educational Needs Across the Primary and Secondary Phases of the English School System

• In Event: Roundtable Session 96
  In Roundtable Session: Involving Families of Children With Disabilities

Abstract

This project investigates how parents of children with an SEN Statement choose their preferred school placements at both primary (aged 5-11) and secondary (age 11-16) school levels. Located within a revived debate about the merits of inclusive and special education, the research examines what parental aspirations by examining their views and which ‘in school’ factors parents perceive as being important for the support of their children in their chosen schools. Preliminary analysis of survey data shows that while the majority of parents seem to prefer special schools, questions are raised as to whether parents do have a real choice.

Authors

• Meanu Bajwa-Patel, University of Northampton

• Cristina Devecchi, University of Northampton