HesfordTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how pupils with special educational need will be supported and advised in Excellence in Cities areas. [115048]
§ Jacqui SmithPupils with special educational needs (SEN) in all areas of the country, including Excellence in Cities (EIC) areas, are supported by schools and LEAs in accordance with the guidance in the SEN Code of Practice. My right hon. Friend aims to consult publicly later this year on a revised SEN Code of Practice. The revised Code is expected to come into effect in September next year. Within EIC areas pupils with SEN in mainstream schools benefit from all aspects of Excellence in Cities. In addition special schools are eligible to become specialist or beacon schools as part of the specialist and beacon school expansion under EIC.