SEND and Inclusion Strategy 2025 to 2030

The number of children and young people (CYP) receiving SEN support in Buckinghamshire is below the national average. The gap between Buckinghamshire, the South East and England has narrowed slightly since 2017. However, figures are still significantly lower.

In January 2025, 12.7% of children attending Buckinghamshire state-funded schools were identified as receiving SEN support. This is compared to the national average of 14.2%.

In June 2025, 7,353 EHCPs were maintained in Buckinghamshire. This represents a 5% increase from the previous year. In January 2025, 4.9% of pupils attending Buckinghamshire state-funded schools had an EHCP. This is below both the regional (5.5%) and national (5.3%) averages.

The number of EHCPs maintained in Buckinghamshire has increased by 128% since 2014. Nationally, the number of EHCPs maintained has increased by 169% in the same period. Across the South East has increased by 183%.

The figures here show continued growth and demand across the system. They indicate that numbers in Buckinghamshire are in line with national data trends. This increase in demand is being seen within the number and complexity of requests for support for SEND needs across the partnership, alongside the increased pressure on local provision and increased reliance on high-cost independent placements.

The cost of meeting these demands has caused and continues to cause vast financial pressures on the Buckinghamshire Local Area. Action needs to be taken to work towards an effective and financially sustainable approach.

In January 2025, (28%) of Buckinghamshire CYP with EHCPs were placed in special schools. Nationally 31% were placed in special schools, and in the South East 32%.

10 years ago, 45% of CYP with ECHPs in Buckinghamshire were placed in special schools. Compared to 46% nationally and 49% in the South East.

Between 2014 and 2025, the number of Buckinghamshire CYP with EHCPs placed in independent special schools has increased from 95 to 191. This is an increase of 101%. Nationally, independent special school placements increased by 243%. In the South East, these placements increased by 307%.

Over 50% of pupils with an EHCP in Buckinghamshire have a primary need linked to:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD),
• or Speech, Language and Communication Difficulties.

32% of pupils with an EHCP have a primary need of ASD, which is in line with the national average of 32%.

Visit the glossary for more information on these abbreviations.