On Thursday 24 July 2025, BuDS published two major research reports about the experiences of disabled/SEND children and young people in education in Buckinghamshire.
Moving From Year 6 To Year 7
The first report deals with the experiences of disabled/SEND children moving from Year 6 to Year 7, in both mainstream and specialist schools. Our research findings are robust and well supported by evidence. Sadly, the situation the research reveals is damning.
- Disabled/SEND students moving to secondary school feel unprepared and unsupported by schools and the local authority, as do their parents and carers.
- Anxiety and fear dominate the experience of disabled/SEND students in this transition, and not a single child or parent/carer reported a positive experience.
- Support during transition was inadequate, with parents and carers strongly feeling that EHCP’s were insufficiently relied upon.
- The local authority did not adequately fulfil its role during the transition, forcing parents/carers to resort to SEND tribunals to resolve disputes.
- Significant frustration with the local authority was expressed, particularly with the lack of acceptable educational placements.
You can view an executive summary of the research report, or download the full report, using the buttons below.
Moving From Education Into Work
The second report deals with the experiences of disabled/SEND young people leaving education and moving into work. Again, our research findings are robust and well supported by evidence. Sadly, once again, the situation the research reveals is damning.
- Employers lack knowledge and understanding of disability, they are disproportionately anxious about employing a disabled worker, and many are institutionally or personally biased against disabled people in the workplace
- Employment support services do not provide support for a long enough period of time
- Employment support services are widely inaccessible for disabled/SEND users
- Undue emphasis is placed on searching for jobs, rather than supporting users to be ready for work
- Remote working, even though it best meets the needs of most disabled/SEND applicants, is hard to find
- Schools do not offer enough support to disabled/SEND students preparing to enter work, especially consistent work experience or employment planning
You can view an executive summary of the research report, or download the full report, using the buttons below.
Live Launch
These two research reports were launched on 24 July 2025 in an online presentation. You can view the launch presentation, or watch a recording of the launch event, using the buttons below. [The launch recording will be uploaded shortly]
Accessibility
If you need any of the above resources in a different format, or need any support or help using them, please contact us and we will be happy to meet your needs.