The purpose of this research project is to examine the impact of the worldwide pandemic Covid-19, looking at the implications it had on children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). As stated by the EEF (2022), schools in England experienced unprecedented disruptions due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. In-person learning was restricted for the majority of pupils during two periods, spring of 2020, and winter of 2021. Many children experienced some form of remote learning during these periods of partial school closures. Recent research shows that Covid-19 related disruptions have worsened educational inequalities. This research project will evaluate both quantitative and qualitative data from my school setting. By investigating the history and definition of SEND, it will provide an insight to what education looked like for these pupils during the pandemic. It will also inform and reform better practice for schools moving forward. It will do so by reflecting upon the pedagogy of those working with SEND children and looking at approaches tailored to individual children’s needs.

I am aware that this is a subjective and sensitive topic, with no simple answers. I hope to present unbiased information and data from my own school setting, but I am aware of the limitations of my study. To provide more accurate results, I would need to conduct a wider scale investigation comparing other schools nationwide, more broadly.