This special paper provides a critical overview of wicked problems in special and inclusive education. Practically, this paper provides a strategic framework for future special issues in the "Journal of Special Educational Needs". Critical attention is also given to the concept of a wicked problem when applied to research in special and inclusive education: the suggestion is made this focus can stimulate innovations necessary for educational change and begin the process through which key problems in the field are addressed. A final observation made is that tangible change is unlikely to occur in special and inclusive education without addressing the underpinning beliefs and behavioural motivations which sustain today's wicked problems. Systematic transformation is therefore unlikely to be sustained without disruptive attention to the psychological, cultural and political aspects of "the way things are".