In this post, I wanted to discuss a crucial issue - the "shadow" pupils, students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who lack an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), a document outlining their essential support. A recent study by the Education Policy Institute (EPI) reveals that these "shadow" pupils, despite receiving extended school support, performed no better in their 2020 GCSEs than peers with EHCPs. The EPI is urging policymakers not to limit EHCPs to save funds. This study also highlights disparities among different ethnic groups in the education system. The key message: every child, regardless of their background, deserves equitable opportunities and support to succeed.
