ASCL welcomes the opportunity to contribute the views of our members to the Autumn 2026 Budget. Our response is based on the views of our members, obtained through discussions at ASCL Council, with relevant advisory groups, and prompted and unprompted emails and messages. 

When considering the impact of any proposals on different groups, it is ASCL’s policy to consider not only the nine protected characteristics included in the Equality Act 2010, but also other groups which might be disproportionately affected, particularly those who are socio-economically disadvantaged. We have answered any equality impact questions on this basis. 

This government faces difficult choices: balancing early years expansion, SEND system reform, skills investment, and higher education sustainability within tight public spending constraints.

ASCL has developed a series of ‘education’ asks to reflect the current priorities facing our sector, the communities it serves and the needs of the country as a whole. 

We have based our representation to this budget on these asks, whilst also including emerging proposals on devolution and the transfer of education and skills powers from Whitehall to regional mayors and local strategic authorities.

Download our submission here