England’s special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision is facing significant challenges. According to a report from The Guardian in January 2025, many local authorities with an education remit are likely to face financial difficulties in the coming months, which could affect the support available to children who rely on these services. For teachers, this presents an ongoing challenge, as stretched resources make it increasingly difficult to provide every student with the support they need.
Despite these pressures, there are opportunities to make a difference. Schools already have access to simple, effective technology that can significantly support students who struggle with reading, writing, or processing information. While the financial pressures are real, awareness of these existing resources offers a valuable path forward to ensuring all students receive the support they deserve.
As a former deputy headteacher, I’ve seen how accessible technology can lighten workloads while also improving educational outcomes. Teachers can harness freely available features on laptops and tablets to reduce stress and empower students with SEND to learn more independently. Some pertinent real-world examples of these tools in action can be found in schools across the country like Sutton School and Woodsetton Primary School in Dudley.
Everyday tools to empower SEND students
Contrary to what some may believe, cutting-edge gadgets aren’t always necessary to support SEND students. Many tools already built into everyday devices can help students alongside more advanced solutions.
Most modern laptops and tablets already have dictation tools that convert speech to text, reducing the burden of written work. Microsoft Word, Google Docs and Apple’s built-in systems each offer free options that require minimal setup time. For students with dyslexia or fine motor difficulties, this can unlock creativity and boost self-confidence.