Flexi-Schooling and SEND: Why One-Size-Fits-All Isn't Working

Recent coverage in Special Needs Jungle highlights an article by Jon Paxman, a Senior Research Associate at the Relationships Foundation, which examines the role of flexi-schooling for children with SEND. The piece notes that while current SEND reforms are designed to strengthen inclusion, there is a widespread belief among parents and professionals that a 'one-size-fits-all' model of full-time education is often inadequate for meeting the complex needs of disabled children. This research adds to an ongoing conversation about whether part-time schooling or hybrid arrangements can be more beneficial than the standard full-time timetable.

For families navigating the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process, this discussion is particularly relevant because it challenges the default assumption that full-time placement is always the best outcome. Many parents find themselves in a constant struggle to justify why their child cannot cope with a full school day, often facing pressure from local authorities to maintain a standard timetable. If research and professional opinion are increasingly recognizing that flexi-schooling can be a valid and beneficial approach, it provides valuable context for families who feel their child’s needs are being overlooked in traditional settings. It suggests that the goal of education should be tailored to the child’s well-being and learning capacity, rather than rigidly adhering to standard hours.

As a result, parents and carers should keep this evolving perspective in mind when drafting or reviewing their child’s EHCP. It may be worth considering whether a reduced timetable or a specific flexi-schooling arrangement could be a more appropriate long-term solution if full-time provision is causing significant distress or hindering progress. However, it is crucial to approach this carefully. Flexi-schooling is not a legal right in the same way as a full-time place, and local authorities will look for robust evidence that this arrangement is in the child’s best interests. You may need to gather evidence regarding your child’s resilience, mental health, and learning outcomes to support such a request. For anything case-specific, it is always wise to seek professional guidance from a SEND specialist or legal advisor to ensure your application is robust and compliant with current regulations.

You can read more about this topic and the underlying research in the original coverage from Special Needs Jungle.