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Education & SEND
Championing Education & SEND Provision
I’m committed to ensuring that every child in Newbury has access to the highest quality education and the support they need to thrive. Whether it’s through investing in our local schools or improving SEND provision, I believe education is the cornerstone of our community’s future. That's why I’m working hard to ensure Newbury’s children, young people, and educators have the resources and opportunities they deserve.
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Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Park House School and Newbury College, where I saw the incredible work being done to support students. Both institutions are committed to excellence, and I’m determined to do everything I can to help them succeed. I also visited University Centre Newbury (UCN), which is playing a vital role in providing higher education pathways right here in our town. Access to further and higher education opportunities is key to fostering the skills needed for local employment and keeping our economy vibrant.
Education goes beyond just academics, though. It’s also about supporting our children’s overall wellbeing. I recently met with constituents to discuss their concerns around SEND provision in our area. Parents shared their struggles in accessing timely support for their children, and the challenges they face in navigating the system. These stories only reinforced my commitment to ensuring every child with additional needs receives the tailored support they need to thrive. I will continue to push for increased funding for SEND services and for greater accountability from local authorities to ensure that support reaches families without unnecessary delays.
In Parliament, I’ve consistently voted to protect our schools from additional taxation and funding cuts. I was proud to vote against a proposal that would have imposed a tax on educational institutions—a move that would have undermined the ability of schools and colleges to provide top-tier education. I’m committed to ensuring our local schools are funded properly so that teachers can focus on teaching and children can focus on learning.
Additionally, I’m encouraging schools across Newbury to engage with Parliament Week—a fantastic opportunity for students to learn about democracy and how they can get involved in shaping the future. By connecting students with Parliament, we can inspire the next generation of leaders and encourage active civic participation from a young age.
SEND provision is another area that demands urgent attention. I understand the frustration many parents feel when it comes to delays in getting Educational Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) approved and the struggle to access appropriate school placements. I’m working closely with local councils and support groups to make sure that SEND services are delivered more efficiently, and that families receive the assistance they deserve without lengthy delays. Every child deserves the best start in life, and I’ll continue fighting to ensure our schools and local authorities are equipped to deliver that.
If you have concerns about education or SEND provision in our community, I want to hear from you. Together, we can push for the changes needed to give every child in Newbury the opportunities they need to flourish. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at lee.dillon.mp@parliament.uk