Context
The question arises from the unique challenges faced by special schools during the pandemic, including difficulties in reopening and providing necessary support to students with additional needs.
Question
What steps his Department is taking to support special schools during the covid-19 outbreak. I visited the excellent Fairways Primary School in my constituency this morning. I have also been contacted by two special schools, Estuary High School, which is having difficulty in getting tests for their students in their residential homes, and Kingsdown School, which is very worried about the new guidance issued on 8 August in terms of social distancing.
Answer from Gavin Williamson
We have published specific guidance to support the full opening of special schools. Recognising the additional challenges that they face, we have announced a package of support worth £1 billion, which includes a £650 million catch-up premium with additional weighting for specialist settings. We are also increasing the high needs funding by an additional £1.5 billion over this year and next. All schools are issued with sets of testing kit, and they have the ability to order more via the NHS portal. I would be very happy to look at the two points highlighted by my hon. Friend.
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