On reports that some schools are having to limit places available for pupils with special educational needs, because of cuts to their budget and the way those places are funded, Emma said:

“It is simply wrong and unfair that government funding cuts are leading schools across the country to limit the places available for pupils with special educational needs. The government must properly fund education for young people with special needs so schools can provide the best support, and reassure parents that their child’s needs will be met.

“Schools have to fund the first £6,000 of the cost of supporting a child with special educational needs – and this cost can be more than the per-pupil funding they receive from the government. This essentially means the schools which have the best provision, and can accommodate more children with these needs, are financially penalised.

“The current system of funding children with special educational needs urgent reform. Schools should be encouraged to provide the best special needs support, and not have to navigate a system which effectively incentivises schools to turn down pupils with special needs.”