Written statement (Wales) on Launch of consultation on additional learning needs data - Oct 8

Lynne Neagle MS, Cabinet Secretary for Education: Today, I am pleased to launch a consultation on the proposed changes to additional learning needs (ALN) data which local authorities, schools and non-school settings record and the Welsh Government collects including:

• about individual children and young people with ALN attending maintained education settings in Wales or who are Educated Other than at School (EOTAS)
• about ALN provision and delivery of the ALN system within maintained education settings
• about individual level data on the education workforce in maintained settings 

We want to understand whether schools, non-school settings and local authorities think the proposed information will support them in their work. We welcome views from all stakeholders who use or have an interest in the ALN information the Welsh Government publishes, and the views of children, young people, and their parents or carers, whose data we are considering.

We need to align the data that schools and local authorities record and share with the Welsh Government with the ALN policy and legislation. This data will help schools and settings understand the needs of children in their schools and to support effective provision and progression of learners. This will also ensure local authorities and the Welsh Government have robust and timely information to underpin strategic planning, system oversight and accountability. 

I am passionate about delivering for learners including those with ALN. The success and continuous improvement of the ALN system is a top priority. Having the right data to support this is crucial and I encourage you to provide your feedback on our proposals through the consultation.