Lived Experiences of Special Schools in England: Key Considerations for Social Work Practice

Abstract

This article presents the lived experiences of attending special education schools in England from the perspectives of three individuals over different times and for different reasons. The focus on the lived experiences is to detail the real-life impact that attending special schools can have on individuals. The accounts highlight that whilst all the individuals had positive experiences from attending special schools, a recurring negative theme from all three individuals is that of a pervading sense of low expectations. The accounts detail the long-term impact of this recurring negative theme for the individuals, and key considerations for social work in the context of the increased use of special schools through the practice of Education Health and Care plans.