Devon’s SEND transformation programme began in late 2023 with a clear ambition to deliver systemic change that addresses long-standing challenges in the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system across Devon.
The SEND transformation programme brings together:
- Actions in the Accelerated Progress Plan (APP) that aim to improve the four areas of weakness across the SEND Local Area Partnership that were identified by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
- Actions required to improve the experiences of children and young people with SEND and their families with the education, health and care systems within Devon.
- Actions required to put Devon County Council’s spending on SEND on a sustainable footing so that the budget deficit – the gap between the budget allocated and the budget spent – is reduced.
The first two years of the programme have been dedicated to laying strong foundations for the work ahead, ensuring we have the right structures, partnerships, and insights in place to drive meaningful change. This includes:
- Published the Devon Local Area SEND Strategy (2024–2027), setting out a clear vision and four strategic commitments to improve experiences and outcomes
- Developed and implemented of universal and targeted Ordinarily Available Inclusive Provision frameworks to strengthen inclusive practices
- Delivered PINS (Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools) project to 26 primary schools, improving early identification and whole-school support for neurodivergent pupils
- Developed new guidance and resources for Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA), including parent support groups and AV1 robots
- Increased investment in Home 2 Onsite (H2O) programme at Petroc College, supporting 70 young people with tailored transition support
- Expanded plans for additional FE places for young people with SEND from 150 to 212 places with purpose-built facilities
- Improved Preparing for Adulthood guidance on the SEND Local Offer website
- Created an online Neurodiversity Hub for families
- Introduced a multi-agency quality assurance framework for EHCPs and focused on improving timeliness of assessments
- Developed a new support offer for families waiting for autism assessments, including trained Neurodiversity Navigators, workshops, and a helpline
Following a comprehensive review and reset in Spring 2025, the programme has sharpened its focus on creating an inclusive approach that prioritises early intervention and support for children and young people.
The programme now has four main strands of work. Each tackles a key area and aims to make lasting improvements. These strands will enable us to work collaboratively with partners, families, and communities to ensure every child and young person can thrive. You can read more about the strands.
How the programme is being managed
The SEND Strategic Partnership Board oversees the programme with other groups reporting to this board. You can read more detail about the programme governance.
The Department for Education and NHS England are monitoring progress against the Accelerated Progress Plan.