We believe SEN children are already excluded from society and education. Many children with disabilities or SEN can find it hard to deal with crowds, noise and the general hustle and bustle of travelling in peak times. Yet, these families are penalised for removing children from school for holidays.
It's not the case that these families fancy being awkward, simply that their children cannot cope. We feel this leaves those families with two choices, go in school holidays and spend most of the time stressed, or ask for flexibility. We believe this would give these families the same chance to a break as families without SEN.
Government response
All children, including children with SEND, have a right to a full-time education. We are determined to break down barriers to opportunity by supporting every child to achieve and thrive at school.