During a visit to Ysgol y Bedol in Carmarthenshire, the Minister
for Education and the Welsh Language, , announced the £20m for
schools to transform the experiences of disabled children and
those with additional learning needs.
The £20m of capital funding for 2023-24 is allocated to improve
the inclusivity of learning environments, create quiet or sensory
areas, upgrade or purchase new equipment such as specialist
sensory aids, and for works to improve additional learning
provision through the medium of Welsh.
This is in addition to the £20m of capital funding the Welsh
Government invested in 2022-23 to support disabled learners and
those with additional learning needs.
Ysgol y Bedol in Garnant, Carmarthenshire used the grant of
£120,000 in 2022-23 to develop a new sensory room and two
classrooms specifically equipped to meet the needs of pupils with
autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as a new outdoor playing
area.
Gethin Richards, Headteacher at Ysgol y Bedol, said:
“This development has ensured that our pupils have access to
their education in an inclusive environment. The sensory room
provides opportunities for pupils to relax and the teaching rooms
accommodate the needs of pupils with autism. There are specific
areas where they can develop awareness of their emotions and
areas for learning, research and playing.
“The outer area is a place for the pupils to explore the world
around them in a way that is completely safe for them. In a short
time, the pupils have settled into the new classes and made huge
progress in their development.
“The resource also allows us to offer expertise and provision to
pupils with autism through the medium of Welsh, which is
absolutely vital for Welsh-speaking families and children in the
area.”
The Minister for Education and the Welsh Language, said:
“This £20m investment will lead to a real difference for disabled
learners, and those with additional learning needs, by making
sure that our schools are accessible, and have the facilities to
support inclusive learning.
"Every child in Wales deserves access to high quality education.
I want to make sure every learner can fulfil their potential.”
The investment will support the implementation of education
reforms in Wales, including the Additional Learning Needs Act,
the Curriculum for Wales and the aim to increase the number of
Welsh speakers.
Local authorities will determine the improvements to schools and
settings based on local need.
