Across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, 106 councils were able to provide information stretching back five years. It revealed a 57% increase in children with a statement, or equivalent, being educated at home. There has also been a rise in the number of children with recognized needs, but without a school place. Almost 1,000 children with this highest level of special needs are waiting for a place.

We recognize the importance of ensuring that schools have the necessary resources to meet a wide range of special educational needs.

In England, where the increase in home education is highest, at 64% over the last five years, the government said it is creating more places at special schools, and is spending £222m over four years on reforms of special educational needs and disability support.

Read the full article on special education by Branwen Jeffreys at BBC