Lynne Neagle MS, Cabinet Secretary for Education
Today, Estyn published its second thematic review on the progress of schools and local authorities in supporting pupils with additional learning needs (ALN). This review evaluates how well the participating schools and settings are implementing the Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018 (ALNET) and the ALN Code, and assesses the support provided by local authorities.
I want to express my gratitude to Estyn for their important work and continued focus on ALN reforms throughout their inspections. I also extend my thanks to all stakeholders within the education sector for their valuable insights and contributions to this review.
Estyn's findings indicate that ALN reforms are beginning to enhance support for pupils with additional learning needs across the country. In areas where the reforms have been successfully implemented, many pupils have shown progress from their initial starting points. The report highlights that many school leaders and staff are fostering an inclusive culture and practice, with a strong emphasis on the learning and well-being of all pupils.
However, the report also notes inconsistencies in the implementation of ALN reforms across the participating schools and settings. I am concerned that some children, young people, and their families may not be receiving the support they need.
There is a significant amount of good work being done, with excellent examples of schools supporting children and young people by fostering an inclusive culture and improving ALN provision across Wales. I am pleased that the report identifies effective practices to support inclusive education, develop strategies for supporting pupils with ALN, enhance Welsh-medium support, and strengthen professional learning, quality assurance, and the roles of the Additional Learning Needs Co-ordinator (ALNCo) and Early Years Additional Learning Needs Officer (EYALNLO).
Estyn’s recommendations focus on four key themes: high-quality teaching and learning, ALNCo’s, equitable Welsh-medium ALN provision, and Additional Learning Provision. I am pleased to publish my response, accepting the recommendations outlined in Estyn’s report and detailing the actions underway to address these areas.
In February, Estyn will present their key findings and highlight the good practices they have identified at our effective practice event with a range of stakeholders.
I will be writing directly to local authorities to draw their attention to the report’s recommendations.