Thousands of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Hampshire and across England will soon benefit from a new government initiative aimed at helping them thrive in mainstream education.
Announced this week, the Department for Education has launched a pilot programme to establish assistive technology lending libraries in up to 32 local authorities. While the final list of participating councils will be confirmed later in the summer, the initiative has the potential to support schools in Andover and across Hampshire.
These libraries will allow up to 4,000 schools to borrow and test a range of assistive devices, enabling teachers to find the best tools for their pupils without needing to make upfront investments.
The types of technology set to be available include:
- Reading pens to scan and read text aloud
- Dictation tools that convert speech to text
- Tablets with communication apps for non-verbal children
Devices like these can be used to help children with a range of needs, including dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and speech and language difficulties.
The government hopes this ‘try before you buy’ approach will help schools build confidence in using assistive technology and avoid wasting money on tools that may not suit every pupil.
A Department for Education survey found that when schools have already introduced assistive technology with staff training, over 85% report positive impacts on confidence and behaviour among SEND pupils.
Why It Matters Locally
New figures released this week show the number of children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) in England has risen by 11% to 638,700 – meaning many families in Hampshire are affected. The pilot forms part of wider reforms to help schools identify needs earlier and ensure children get help without delays.
Although Hampshire County Council has not yet confirmed whether it will be part of the first wave of lending libraries, the Department for Education expects local authorities to begin implementing the scheme from the start of the new school year.
Assistive technology is already making a difference in schools that have adopted it, helping children take part in lessons more independently and giving teachers tools to support pupils alongside in-person assistance.
The pilot complements the government’s broader Digital Inclusion Action Plan, which is also investing in upgrading wireless networks and providing fibre broadband to schools.
For more information about the programme, visit www.gov.uk.