OLDHAM Liberal Democrats have slammed the decline in standards for students with special educational needs and disabilities in the borough as “unforgivable” following the recent inspection.

They are calling on the current administration to take urgent action to meet the recommendations outlined in the report.

Liberal Democrat Cllr Garth Harkness, shadow cabinet member for employment and skills and an autism spectrum disorder lead teacher at a Manchester school, said: “Although the inspectors found some good practice and some motivated staff, it is clear from this report that there is a serious disconnect between what should be happening to meet the accepted standards of good practice and what is all-too-often happening on the ground and in our classrooms in Oldham.

“A child or young person with SEN, such as autism, and/or disabilities has just as much right to expect an excellent education as any other pupil. It is unforgivable and it is shameful if we as a council and as an education authority continue to fail them in this way, and this failure must stop.”

He added: “We want to see every child and young person in our borough achieve as much as they possibly can in education and in life so that they can fulfil their true potential.

“As always we are willing to work with the Labour administration if they genuinely want to work with us.”