New SEND training materials for teachers, developed by training experts Ambition Institute, have been published.

Building on expertise from the sector, the free training materials for schools and post-16 settings are now available to be used in the way that works best for them, throughout the year or on existing training days.

The materials will give teachers practical techniques such as breaking instructions into digestible steps, pre-teaching specialist vocabulary, and carving out time for children and young people to practise it.

They will go hand in hand with online training for early years staff, developed and delivered by early years charity Dingley’s Promise, supporting staff to use age-appropriate inclusive practices from day one - like using visual timetables to help children with transitions between activities, or adapting environments to reduce unnecessary noise that can be a barrier to communication and emotional regulation.

The move is the first step as part of the government’s wider £200 million investment into teacher training to transform support for children and young people with SEND, ending a postcode lottery that has left too many families fighting for support.

In a recent survey, one in three teachers said they want more training on supporting children with SEND. Alongside this, a quarter of surveyed teaching assistants in schools reported that a lack of sufficient training was a barrier to them effectively providing support for these pupils.

Further resources are due to published in January and April next year and fully funded training courses will then follow in September next year for teachers, leaders and support staff across the country.

Hilary Spencer, Chief Executive of Ambition Institute, said: "Every child and young person deserves to feel included and able to achieve their potential. We know that educators across the country want to feel more confident and well-equipped to support children and young people with SEND.

"Our aim throughout has been to create practical, adaptable materials that help teachers and support staff to respond to a wide range of needs and strengthen their inclusive teaching practice.

"At Ambition Institute, our mission is to help educators serving children from disadvantaged backgrounds to keep getting better. We hope these materials contribute to helping every child and young person thrive, whatever their starting point."