Many schools are rejecting children with special educational needs and disabilities because they fear they will bring down their performance and affect their place in the league tables, according to an Audit Commission report, writes Sally Gillen.

'Special Educational Needs: a mainstream issue', calls on the government to give schools more incentive to accept children with special needs.

It recommends introducing new systems for recognising schools’ work on SEN, by raising its profile in school inspection and awards for schools that can show inclusive practice.

Under the Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001, which came into force in September, schools must not discriminate against children with these needs.

But Sir Andrew Foster, controller of the Audit Commission, said: "League tables weaken schools commitment to working with pupils with SEN – for fear they will drag down their position. This has a damaging effect on staff morale and explains the reluctance of some headteachers to admit pupils with SEN."

Caroline Cooke, research and public policy officer at Scope, said the charity welcomed the report and the way "it highlights the tension that exists in the government’s agenda".

She added: "It is promoting the policy of inclusion at the same time as failing to value anything other than the achievement of academic targets."

To read the report click here