Annual report

HM Chief Inspector published his annual 2023/24 report on 5th December 2024. The report finds that most children are well-served by the education sector and, in social care, life-changing work is being done for children and young people every day. However, education and social care professionals are working hard under immense pressure. Where systems are under strain, it is vulnerable and disadvantaged children who are most affected. 

Workforce challenges mean there are often not enough qualified staff in classrooms, nurseries, colleges or care settings. The SEND system is struggling as demand for services continues to rise. In schools, attendance issues have deepened and learning has become disjointed for too many children. The number of children in care continues to rise, but there is a shortage of foster carers and not enough children’s homes in the right places. 

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