The special schools in Lincolnshire are currently at maximum occupancy, despite the local council’s expenditure of more than £100 million on their enlargement. BBC journalist Jessica Lane spoke with two mothers, Linzi and Courtney, who claim that the requirements of children with additional needs are not being appropriately addressed by the system. Roni, aged five, and Charlie, aged four, both living in Lincoln, are not attending school because there are no spaces available, despite them both having Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) that stipulate their need for specialist education instead of traditional schooling.
There has been a 77% increase in the demand for Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) support in Lincolnshire over the last five years, according to the county council. But despite the significant funds invested to increase the capacity of special schools, they are all still at maximum capacity.
Linzi, Roni’s mother, detailed her difficulties, explaining that she had to resign from her job to cater to her son’s educational needs. Roni was born prematurely at 26 weeks and faces several developmental challenges. He is currently being homeschooled for two hours every day. Despite applying to nine separate schools, Roni will not start school until September 2026, when he is six and a half years old.
Courtney, Charlie’s mother, gave voice to her irritation as her son has been turned away by three special schools due to insufficient room. Presently involved in a tribunal process, Courtney is worried she might also need to resign from her job if Charlie needs homeschooling.
Martin Smith, the assistant director for education at Lincolnshire County Council, acknowledged the increasing demand, stating that the number of EHCPs rose from 5,119 in 2020 to 9,081 by August 2025. To tackle this, the council is creating SEND hubs in several mainstream schools to offer intermediate support. Gainsborough Academy recently inaugurated its SEND hub, named ‘Phase’, which provides places for children who require additional support.
Rachael Skelton, the headteacher at Gainsborough Academy, underlined the high proportion of children with special educational needs and stressed the significance of supporting young individuals within their local communities.
While Linzi is relieved that Roni has finally obtained a place in a nearby special school, Courtney is persisting with her fight in the hopes of achieving a favourable tribunal ruling. Both mothers are advocating for more resources, assistance, and places in schools for children with special educational needs in Lincolnshire.
