Think piece on special educational needs published

The Policy centre has published a Think Piece Jersey’s SEND crisis: costs, challenges and the case for reform by educationalist Peter Fekete. The paper notes that Jersey’s SEND system is under significant strain, with rising demand, escalating costs and inconsistent outcomes –

“The 2025 Island SEND Review found that leadership, organisation and oversight of inclusive education are “not sufficiently effective”, creating inconsistent experiences for children. A reactive, complaint‑driven culture absorbs staff time and prevents timely support, while delays in identifying needs lead to higher long‑term costs. Expertise exists but it is under‑used, and morale across the system is low.”

The paper comments that –

“The Government’s Immediate Priorities Plan (2025–26) focuses on structural reorganisation, but these strategic changes have yet to improve day‑to‑day experiences. The approach mirrors UK reforms, which also emphasise inclusive education and early identification but acknowledge that current systems are “ineffective and inefficient” despite major funding increases.”

Peter Fekete concludes –

“Current reviews focus on symptoms rather than causes. A systems‑theory approach, combined with practical classroom‑level improvements such as differentiated instruction and individualised interventions, could deliver more immediate benefits. Without such changes, pressures on families, schools and public finances will continue to grow.”