ISLAND MP Bob Seely has welcomed government support for Isle of Wight children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to the tune of nearly £850,000.

Children and families minister Vicky Ford confirmed to Mr Seely the figure on Tuesday during a Westminster Hall debate, called for by Mr Seely, about support for children.

Mr Seely wanted to discuss the Isle of Wight’s needs with regard to the number of children covered by SEND provision and Education and Health Care Plans (EHCP).

Mr Seely raised that the Island had a higher percentage of children with SEND and EHCP — 4.4 per cent compared to the national average of 3.1 per cent.

This, he said, puts pressure on schools who are obliged to fund the first £6,000 for each SEND or EHCP child.

He also raised concerns that if this were to rise, it would put schools under severe strain.

Mr Seely asked how Island schools would be helped to cope with a caseload significantly higher than the national average, how the forthcoming review of the high needs funding formula would better support Island children and families, and for reassurance the review would take into account evidence from authorities such as the Isle of Wight.

The minister confirmed the Isle of Wight received £849,000 this year.

She said: “We are planning to start a review of the high needs funding formula later this year, including the £6,000 contribution as part of the call for evidence, and we will comment on that in due course."