Jersey inclusive education review published
nasen has carried out an Independent Review of Inclusive Education and Early Years for the Government of Jersey as part of their commitment to ‘putting children first’ and making Jersey’s education system more inclusive.
A total of 50 recommendations have been made, including a shift in culture to meet the educational needs of all children and young people, updating legislation and policies to be more in line with Government aspiration, providing more transparent data, and challenging the selective and separate nature of schooling in Jersey.
Other recommendations include enhancing longer-term strategies for mental health and wellbeing, more training for education professionals, and widening educational provision to include young people up to the age of 25.
The Minister for Children and Education, Deputy Scott Wickenden, said: “The Government is actively seeking to ensure that its education system is working towards being among the best in the world. At a time when the pandemic has highlighted the need for equality, it is clear that prioritising inclusion has never been more important.
“I acknowledge there are challenges in creating a more inclusive education system, but we are committed to ensuring that opportunities are available for all children and young people to learn, progress and prosper both academically and socially.”
Professor Philip Garner, Project Lead for nasen, said: “We recognise that inclusion is a journey and came to this review understanding that there was already some good practice taking place in Jersey. This report can act as a catalyst so that this work can be extended, enabling Jersey to be close to the cutting edge of international best practice.
“Our report on inclusive education resulted from an inclusive approach. We benefited greatly from engagement with teachers, parents, carers and children and young people as well as many organisations and professional groups. The report and recommendations reflect a community approach moving forward.”
As part of the review, nasen’s team spoke to education professionals, parents, children, statutory providers of education, organisations or groups and individual stakeholders, which included Government of Jersey officials, politicians, professional associations, unions, education community groups and those involved in social care.
The Independent Review of Inclusive Education can be found on the Government of Jersey website.
