The number of pupils with educational health and care plans (EHCP) has risen by 71% between 2018 and 2024, primarily due to a near doubling in cases of autistic spectrum disorders, speech and language needs, and social, emotional, and mental health needs.

This is according to new data published by the Institute of Fiscal Studies’ (IFS) which also reported an increase in the high-needs budget of £3.5 billion since 2015, accounting for nearly half of the £7.6 billion increase in overall school spending during the same period.

Policy recommendations include streamlining processes for EHCP assessments, shifting focus to early intervention and investing in mainstream school inclusion.