Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 60
60
Deferred
Learning Support Assistants and Teaching Assistants lack adequate SEND-specific training
Conclusion
Learning support assistants and teaching assistants are integral to the effective delivery of SEND support and resourcing their deployment properly can help reduce the need for expensive specialist placements. To sustain and strengthen their contribution, improvements are urgently needed in the recruitment, training, CPD and retention of this workforce. We are particularly concerned by evidence that many LSAs and TAs lack adequate SEND-specific training to perform their roles safely and effectively. (Conclusion, Paragraph 223)
Government Response Summary
The government states that the newly established School Support Staff Negotiating Body (SSSNB) will advise on suitable training and career progression routes for TAs and LSAs, thereby deferring action on these improvements and the concern about SEND-specific training.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
Teaching Assistants (TAs) play an important role in supporting pupils with SEND. We recognise that training and career progression opportunities for TAs help schools have the skilled staff they need. This Government values and recognises the professionalism of the entire school workforce, which is why the School Support Staff Negotiating Body (SSSNB) is being established through the Employment Rights Bill. The body will mean that in future years the pay rates, pay awards, and terms and conditions for school support staff will be negotiated by school support staff employer and employee representatives, and incorporated into contracts when agreed by the Secretary of State. This will ensure that support staff are properly recognised and rewarded for the work they do. The SSSNB will also advise on suitable training and career progression routes that recognise the varied and vital roles support staff undertake. The body will help address recruitment and retention challenges state-funded schools are facing for support staff.