Written question asked by Lord Addington (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 11 February 2016, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 25 February 2016. It was answered by Lord Nash (Conservative) on Tuesday, 23 February 2016 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Teachers: Training

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they are aware of any evidence that being taught by teachers specifically trained in support and identification of special educational needs has a negative impact on pupils who do not have a special educational need.

Answer: In order to be awarded qualified teacher status (QTS), trainees must satisfy the Teachers’ Standards, which include a requirement that they have a clear understanding of the needs of all pupils, including those with SEN, and are able to use and evaluate distinctive teaching approaches to engage and support them. The most important factor, as recognised by Ofsted, in supporting the best outcomes for all pupils with and without SEND, is the quality of teaching. All students benefit from high quality teaching supported by rigorous monitoring and good assessment, with specialist teachers where required.

Secondary information