Defining SEND outcomes under the new Code of Practice

The SEND Code of Practice asks practitioners to start with desired outcomes and then to work out what SEND provision is required – or whether it is even required at all.
The code sets out that “this should then help determine the support that is needed and whether it can be provided by adapting the school’s core offer or whether something different or additional is required”.

While this is concerned with the outcomes that may or may not be achieved by intervening immediately and across the current academic year, it also resonates with the wider educational agenda.

Changes to the assessment process to move away from national curriculum levels and data-tracking and focusing on agreed outcomes which support the young person to prepare effectively for a fulfilling and independent adult life offer an opportunity for a slightly different approach.