Catch-up Programme

Today in the Education Committee we heard about the government’s catch-up programme. It is absolutely right that this programme has a particular focus on disadvantaged pupils, who have disproportionately suffered as a result of the pandemic.

I raised the question of how this programme is built to provide for students with special educational needs and disabilities. The data clearly shows that those from deprived backgrounds have been badly affected by lost learning throughout the pandemic, but it is essential that the catch-up programme includes those disadvantaged due to disability and learning differences.

I was pleased to hear that over half the providers of the tutoring programme have the capability to support SEND students, as well as a cohort of specialists. You can watch my question on the government catch up programme below.