Special needs schools get £3m

Schools in Gloucestershire are to benefit from nearly £3 million over the next two years as part of a pilot scheme devised to improve special needs teaching.

Ten local authorities are to be given additional funding and will pilot the government initiative.

"This is an exciting project to be involved with as it is a real opportunity to make a difference to some of the county's most vulnerable children," commented councillor Jackie Hall, acting lead cabinet member for children's services.

The schools are taking part in the Achievement for All scheme, which will see a total of £31 million invested - the country will receive £1 million this year and £1.7 million in 2010/11.

It is hoped the money will help improve staff training and increase the amount of out-of-school activities for special needs pupils.

Ed Balls, secretary of state at the Department for Children, Schools and Families, told the National College of School Leadership's annual conference in Birmingham: "I want to give all teachers the tools and approaches that will see them able to set realistic but challenging goals for children with special educational needs."

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