The School Accessibility Strategy 2026 to 2028 focuses on practical improvements that remove barriers to learning, participation and inclusion within mainstream schools, so that pupils with SEND can benefit fully from their education. Although intended for schools maintained by the council, it is expected that other schools in the city will also consider the guidance.

Children and young people, parents and carers, education leaders, and social care and health professionals were invited to take part in a consultation earlier this year to help shape the strategy, and ensure it reflects the needs and priorities of local people.

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “We are committed to inclusive education and improving access for children and young people with disabilities.

“Levels of need in Wolverhampton continue to rise, with increasing numbers of pupils receiving special educational needs support or having Education, Health and Care Plans, and improving accessibility is essential to promoting equality of opportunity, supporting inclusive education, and enabling children and young people with disabilities to thrive in their local schools and communities.

“All councils must prepare and implement an accessibility strategy for the maintained schools they are responsible for, and on behalf of the council I would like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation and have helped shape the draft School Accessibility Strategy 2026 to 2028.”