(England) One third of parents say their child has special needs; 53% say their child has autism
- Apr 20
- 2 min read
A total of 29% of parents of secondary and primary school children say their children have special educational needs (SEN), and 53% say their child has autism, while 43% say their child has ADHD. Anxiety (28%), dyslexia (18%) and dyspraxia (6%) are also common in modern children according to the survey of parents.
A total of 22% said the school system does not work at all for their child. The research was commissioned by Wolsey Hall Oxford, which is urging the Department of Education to reform the current education system, calling for more flexible learning options tailored to each child rather than forcing children to adapt to unsuitable models.
Nearly half of parents believe a more flexible education system would better support their child’s wellbeing and academic success. Parents are calling for different approaches to learning, with 62% favouring small-group teaching amid concerns about growing class sizes, 40% backing project-based learning, and 26% supporting a blended model of classroom and online education.
Gavin McLean, Principal at Wolsey Hall Oxford, said: “Today’s education system still reflects a model first set up over 200 years ago, designed to fit the needs of parents who were factory workers, but children are not products on an assembly line. . . .
“Homeschooling is increasingly seen as a popular alternative, giving parents the freedom to create a more personalised, flexible environment where children can truly engage through hands-on learning, real-world experiences, and the time and space to build confidence without pressure.
“As our research shows, many parents are already questioning whether the mainstream education system is the right fit. Exploring alternatives like homeschooling or a hybrid model of studying at home and in a physical school environment can open up new opportunities for children to thrive, develop independence and foster a genuine love of learning that stays with them for life.”
Currently, around one in five children in England receives SEN support. Neurodivergent conditions are believed to affect one in seven children, according to the Government.
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