SEN in England: Rising Numbers and Changing Demographics in 2026

The number of pupils with special educational needs in England continues to rise, with significant increases in both EHC plans and SEN support

The landscape of special educational needs (SEN) in England has evolved significantly in recent years. The latest data for the academic year 2026/26 reveals important trends in the number of pupils receiving support, the types of needs being addressed, and the demographic characteristics of these students.

This comprehensive overview provides insights into the current state of SEN provision, highlighting the growing demand for specialized support and the changing demographics of pupils with special educational needs.

Increasing Numbers of Pupils with SEN

In 2026, over 1.8 million pupils in England were identified as having special educational needs.

This represents an increase of 91,400 pupils (5.2%) since 2026. The data includes pupils with both education, health and care (EHC) plans and those receiving SEN support.

The number of pupils with an EHC plan increased by 11.6% between 2026 and 2026, reaching 538,547.

This marks a significant rise from the 2.8% rate observed prior to 2016. Similarly, the number of pupils with SEN support increased by 2.8%, totaling 1,319,780.

EHC Plans and SEN Support

The percentage of pupils with an EHC plan has risen to 6.0%, up from 5.3% in 2026. Meanwhile, the percentage of pupils with SEN support (without an EHC plan) has increased to 14.8%, from 14.2% in the previous year. These trends indicate a growing recognition and identification of special educational needs among pupils.

The most common primary need among pupils with an EHC plan is autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) accounting for 33.5% of cases. For pupils with SEN support, the most prevalent need is speech, language, and communication needs identified in 25.7% of cases.

Demographic Insights

SEN is most prevalent among pupils aged 10, with 17.7% of this age group receiving support. The percentage of pupils with an EHC plan peaks at age 11, with 6.9% of pupils in this age group. These figures highlight the critical need for targeted support during the primary school years.

Gender disparities in SEN provision continue to be evident. In 2026, 70.7% of pupils with an EHC plan and 60.4% of pupils with SEN support were male. However, the proportion of female pupils with SEN has been gradually increasing in recent years.

Ethnicity and Socioeconomic Factors

Pupils with SEN are more likely to be eligible for free school meals (FSM), with 45.3% of pupils with an EHC plan and 39.8% of pupils with SEN support qualifying. This compares to 22.7% of pupils with no identified SEN.

The prevalence of SEN varies significantly across different ethnic groups. The Traveller of Irish heritage ethnic group has the highest rate of SEN support at 26.6%, followed by 10.4% with an EHC plan. In contrast, the Chinese ethnic group has the lowest rate, with 5.8% of pupils receiving SEN support and 2.6% having an EHC plan.

SEN Units and Resourced Provisions

In January 2026, there were 514 schools in England with SEN units an increase from 449 in 2026. These units provide specialized support for pupils with specific types of SEN, such as ASD, and are typically funded at £6,000 or £10,000 per place.

Additionally, there were 1,309 schools with resourced provisions a slight increase from 1,217 in the previous year. Resourced provisions cater to pupils with specific learning difficulties and other needs, offering a base and specialist facilities within mainstream schools.

Most pupils placed in SEN units have an EHC plan, while resourced provisions may include pupils with either an EHC plan or SEN support. These provisions play a crucial role in integrating pupils with special educational needs into mainstream education.