The Role of Inclusive School Leadership in Promoting Equity for Students with Special Educational Needs in UK Secondary Education
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The Role of Inclusive School Leadership in Promoting Equity for Students with Special Educational Needs in UK Secondary Education

Tong Yang 1, Yinghui Zhao 2* Weiteng Wu 3, Rongcheng Du 4
1 University of Washington
2 Capital Normal University
3 University of Bristol
4 Diocesan Boys'School
*Corresponding author: zhaohong1015204@126.com
Published on 26 November 2025
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LNEP Vol.114
ISSN (Print): 2753-7056
ISSN (Online): 2753-7048
ISBN (Print): 978-1-80590-511-0
ISBN (Online): 978-1-80590-512-7
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Abstract

In this work synthesizes research from 2000 to 2025 to explore how inclusive leadership implemented by secondary school leaders in the UK influences educational equity for students with special educational needs (SEN). Drawing on a qualitative systematic review methodology, the study focuses on transformational leadership as a key theoretical framework. Findings indicate that inclusive leadership advances equity through three interconnected mechanisms: articulating an equity-oriented vision, fostering teacher professional development, and establishing systematic processes for identification, intervention, and evaluation of SEN support. These mechanisms help reshape school culture, strengthen teacher-student relationships, and ensure consistent and sustainable inclusive practices. The study concludes with practical recommendations for school leaders and policymakers, emphasizing the integration of instructional and inclusive competencies, progress monitoring, and evidence-based strategies to enhance educational experiences for students with SEN.

Keywords:

Inclusive Leadership, Educational Equity, Special Educational Needs, Transformational Leadership, Secondary Education.

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Yang,T.;Zhao,Y.;Wu,W.;Du,R. (2025). The Role of Inclusive School Leadership in Promoting Equity for Students with Special Educational Needs in UK Secondary Education. Lecture Notes in Education Psychology and Public Media,114,45-51.

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Cite this article

Yang,T.;Zhao,Y.;Wu,W.;Du,R. (2025). The Role of Inclusive School Leadership in Promoting Equity for Students with Special Educational Needs in UK Secondary Education. Lecture Notes in Education Psychology and Public Media,114,45-51.

Data availability

The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study will be available from the authors upon reasonable request.

About volume

Volume title: Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on International Law and Legal Policy

ISBN: 978-1-80590-511-0(Print) / 978-1-80590-512-7(Online)
Editor: Renuka Thakore, Abdullah Laghari
Conference date: 17 October 2025
Series: Lecture Notes in Education Psychology and Public Media
Volume number: Vol.114
ISSN: 2753-7048(Print) / 2753-7056(Online)