About Us

How is the Association Governed?
The membership elects a steering committee and appoints a Chair to lead Natspec. The committee meets each half term. The Chief Executive is responsible for the strategic guidance and operational leadership of the Association and for the preparation and implementation of its Strategic Plan.

What does Natspec do?
The Association acts as the national voice for specialist colleges. It lobbies the government to influence policy and raises concerns about provision and entitlement for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.

In partnership with others, Natspec works to ensure a wide choice of innovative, high quality, cost-effective education and training to meet the needs of people with learning difficulties or disabilities.

Natspec supports its members in seeking continued improvements in the provision offered to students. Professional development of staff is a high priority and Natspec offers training events for member colleges.

The Association gives advice to individual learners, their families and supporters. Information is also provided to the Connexions and other guidance services.

Although Natspec does not regulate or inspect colleges, it strongly promotes the very highest standards of education and care. All Natspec colleges are inspected by Ofsted and individual reports can be found at www.ofsted.gov.uk