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Can diversity help relieve the pressure on SEND?


access to specialised equipment, and less opportunity for tailored learning solutions.


Despite these constraints, research demonstrates that diverse teaching strategies can be cost-effective and, more importantly, impactful, fostering an environment of acceptance and belonging. When classrooms are adapted to accommodate various needs, SEND students are more likely to feel valued and supported. This positive environment can boost confidence, motivation, and engagement, which are critical for academic and social development. These benefits can also contribute to reducing behavioural issues and promoting a more cohesive classroom community.


In recent years, the educational landscape has faced significant financial challenges, leading to austerity measures and budget cuts across all schools. Whilst these financial pressures impact the entire system, their effect on students with special educational needs can be particularly profound. Here, Charles


Golding, co-founder of CARGO Movement, argues it is vital to understand why implementing diverse and inclusive teaching strategies remains essential, especially in such difficult times.


SEND students in nature are a diverse group with a unique set of learning requirements. Classrooms will often feature a wide range of educational needs, some with physical disabilities, others might experience challenges such as autism and dyslexia, as well as varying levels of behavioural and emotional challenges. Afro-Caribbean and other ethnic minority pupils are also over- represented in SEND identification compared to white British pupils as detailed in the 2018 ESRC report. Our work at CARGO Movement has always focused on reducing barriers of engagement and increasing accessibility for all learners, using a combination of technology, poetry and our unique visually informed pedagogy. Addressing the variety of needs of a SEND classroom effectively requires a flexible and similar multi-faceted approach. This can consist of multisensory learning, assistive technology, and individually tailored support plans.


However, according to a recent Guardian report, the reality is the vast majority of upper-tier councils are facing a huge SEND funding deficit. Over 12 councils have accumulated SEND spending deficits of over £100m, potentially pushing these local authorities into bankruptcy over the next couple of years. These existing pressures alongside existing financial cuts will inevitably lead to reduced resources, fewer teaching assistants, limited


July/August 2025 www.education-today.co.uk 19


As a small independent organisation, we are acutely aware of the existing pressures placed on educators. In an attempt to support the work of SEND teachers, we have designed a range of specialist resources to help inform more diverse learning. Barbara Guiu is a teacher with over 30 years of experience in the field of SEND. Her pioneering work has been informing diverse teaching within SEND across many types of learners from pre-formal and formal. With her support, we are developing a range of free to access tailored resources that specifically target diverse classrooms and the needs of SEND educators.


It’s also important to acknowledge diverse teaching benefits not only SEND students but the entire educational ecosystem. Inclusive practices encourage empathy, adaptability, and collaboration among all pupils. For instance, when teachers incorporate different learning styles, group work, and varied assessment methods, the classroom becomes a dynamic space where all students can thrive.


Whilst financial cuts pose undeniable challenges for the education system, they must not diminish the commitment to providing high-quality, inclusive education for SEND students. Employing diverse teaching strategies is not merely an option; it is an ethical and pedagogical necessity to ensure that every learner receives the support they deserve and maximise their true potential.


For more information, visit www.cargomovement.org


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