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.
