Primary Inclusion Development Grant
Applications for the Primary Inclusion Development Grant have now closed.
This initiative has been funded by the SEND and AP Change Programme, funding for which finishes in March 2026.
During 2024/25 there were a total of 507 days of education lost due to suspensions across Shropshire Primary Schools. Building on the success of the Inclusion Development Grant for Secondary Schools (permanent exclusions have been reduced by nearly 50 % in 2024/25 compared with the previous year), the Primary Inclusion Development Grant was introduced with the following objectives:
•To reduce the number of permanent exclusions and suspensions in Shropshire primary schools
•To reduce the number of pupils in receipt of reduced timetables
•To improve attendance
•To create inclusive learning environments that support the diverse needs of all pupils
•To build capacity and expertise in schools
•To promote collaboration and sharing of best practice among schools, trusts and federations
Schools, trusts, federations and networks of schools submitted proposals for funding. Funding is being provided from the SEND and AP Change Programme (supplemented by the High Needs Block) and for two years. Schools also requested additional funding from the High Needs Capital Allocation to create inclusive spaces that support students with additional needs. Schools were encouraged to consider long-term sustainability so that the projects would continue after funding stopped.
The proposal must be for a new project rather than an existing initiative and will focus on the development of in-school alternative provision to provide early intervention and targeted support for pupils. This could be used as a shared resource for other schools.
As an example, a project could involve the creation of new spaces (e.g. sensory rooms) through the repurposing of areas in school, increasing hours for members of staff to provide specific programmes or the purchase of additional resources.
The proposals will be assessed, monitored and evaluated by Education Quality Advisors (EQA).
Any enquiries regarding capital funding for SEND provision outside of the PIDG should be sent to Sarah Court.
For any enquiries please e-mail EQA@shropshire.gov.uk