In a bold step towards modernising educational support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the UK Government has announced a new assistive technology pilot aimed at enhancing learning outcomes and easing workloads on teachers. This initiative will see up to 4,000 schools across 32 local authorities benefit from cutting-edge classroom tools, with £1.7 million of government funding allocated to the programme.
At the heart of the pilot are ‘lending libraries’—specialised resource centres stocked with digital devices such as reading pens, speech-to-text dictation tools, and communication tablets. These devices are designed to help children with dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and other learning difficulties to better access the curriculum and participate more confidently in classroom activities.
The launch comes as the number of children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) has surged by 11%, reaching 638,700. The government admits that this rise reflects unmet needs and is part of a wider commitment to early intervention and inclusive educational practices.
‘Try before you buy’: Schools gain confidence in assistive tools
The lending libraries adopt a unique ‘try before you buy’ model, enabling schools to test various technologies before committing to long-term investment. This approach is aimed at reducing financial waste and allowing staff to build confidence in selecting the most effective tools tailored to their pupils’ needs.
Early findings are promising. In schools that have already implemented assistive technologies alongside staff training, 86% of staff observed improved pupil behaviour, while 89% reported higher levels of student confidence.
Minister for School Standards, Catherine McKinnell, emphasised the government’s vision for a more inclusive education system:
“Assistive technology can play a key role in unlocking learning for so many children. This pilot supports teachers and ensures all children have the tools they need to achieve and thrive.”
Real-world impact: A parent’s perspective
For many families, the pilot represents more than just a policy—it’s a life-changing opportunity set to revolutionize classroom teaching and lesson planning. Bryony Herbert, whose son Archie has dyslexia, shared how assistive technology has transformed her son’s learning experience. Once frustrated and tearful over homework, Archie now uses a Chromebook equipped with talk-to-text functionality.
“He’s no longer reliant on reading to access information. He enjoys learning, is more confident, and is simply a much happier child.”
Such stories underline the emotional and academic value of assistive tools and AI in the classrooms to help boost productivity, reinforcing the importance of integrating technology into everyday education—not as a luxury, but as a necessity.
Empowering educators and freeing up teaching time
Beyond the direct benefits to pupils, assistive technology is also having a measurable impact on UK teaching staff. The tools help pupils work independently, thereby freeing teachers and support staff to concentrate on face-to-face teaching—the core of meaningful learning engagement.
However, a notable gap remains. Government data shows only 13% of mainstream school leaders are aware of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, and a mere 6% have implemented them. This pilot aims to close that awareness gap and build an inclusive digital culture across UK classrooms.
Julaan Govier and Cheryl Shirley, both educators at the LEO Academy Trust, highlighted the practical benefits:
“The integration of screen readers, picture dictionaries, and translators has allowed students to access learning in ways that suit them. They now communicate more effectively and feel dignified in doing so.”
Broader investments in digital inclusion
This pilot is part of a wider push by the government to improve digital infrastructure and inclusion. Alongside the lending libraries, there’s an ongoing rollout of £25 million to upgrade school wireless networks and a further £20 million to deliver fibre connectivity to hundreds of schools—benefiting more than 1.3 million students so far.
Such investment ensures that children across the UK, regardless of background or ability, are given equal access to digital tools that can shape their educational and personal growth.
Annamarie Hassall MBE, Chief Executive at nasen, welcomed the initiative:
“Assistive technology tools are increasingly accessible. Schools just need the opportunity to build confidence through hands-on experience.”
A roadmap for the future of inclusive learning
The assistive technology lending libraries are a vital component of the government’s Change Programme, a SEND reform initiative focused on early intervention and equipping mainstream schools with specialist support.
The Department for Education, in partnership with assistive technology experts CENMAC, will oversee the implementation of the programme. Local authorities involved in the pilot will be confirmed over the summer, with rollout scheduled for the start of the new school year.
For the UK’s education workforce, especially teachers and teaching assistants already under pressure, this pilot is a practical, well-timed development. It not only empowers schools with cost-effective, impactful solutions but also symbolises a cultural shift towards inclusivity and innovation in classrooms across the nation to help our children learn better.
