Natspec is the membership association for independent specialist colleges providing further education for young people with learning difficulties and/or disabilities.
Natspec believes that specialist provision should always be one of the choices available in an inclusive system. Specialist colleges can give a first taste of real independence and through personalised learning and support they help young people to achieve their aspirations for adult life – to live independently, to be active in the community or to work.
Recently there have been changes in the application process for specialist colleges; but specialist college places, and the funding to support them, remain available. In the Directory Pages of this website, you will find information about specialist colleges and how to apply to them. Elsewhere you will find information about Natspec and its activities.
Reform of provision for children and young people with Special Educational Needs
Natspec welcomes this draft legislation which follows on from Support and Aspiration. In particular we welcome the general emphasis on including young people and responding to their wishes. Natspec believes that choice is a crucial element of any reformed system. You can read Natspec’s views here:
Support and aspiration: A new approach to special educational needs and disability
Natspec welcomes the recent publication of Support and Aspiration: Progress and next steps, and we share its ambition that 'Every child or young person, whether in a mainstream or special setting, deserves a world class education to ensure that they fulfil their potential.' You can read the document here
Our initial comments on the proposals can be downloaded here:
Please add your signature to the e-petition below, which asks for improved choice and access to specialist provision for young people with learning difficulties or disabilities. Just click on the link and follow the instructions
Give learning disabled young people genuine education choices
Review Commissioning arrangements for post-16 education for learning disabled young people and give them the right to have specialist provision as a choice.
http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/32822
