Education Minister has today released a framework
for monitoring the contribution of the SEN Reform Agenda to
improved outcomes for learners with Special Educational Needs or
disabilities.
The Special Educational Needs/Disability (SEN/D) Reform Agenda
Outcomes Framework 2025-2030 sets out four strategic outcomes to
be achieved over the next five years, as part of the SEN/D Reform
Delivery Plan.
It also introduces population indicators that will be used to
assess progress and impact across the system.
Welcoming the new framework, said: “In recent years,
my Department has witnessed a significant rise in the number of
children and young people with Special Educational Needs, as well
as an increasing multiplicity of needs.
“Reform of the education system is required to ensure it
can flex to meet the changing needs of our learners and ensure
they are supported to thrive.
“Against this backdrop, I have set out four strategic
outcomes in the SEN/D Reform Agenda over the next five years.
These outcomes outline the conditions we want and will focus the
collaborative working of the SEN Reform Agenda. It aims to ensure
that children and young people with Special Educational Needs and
disabilities experience the benefits of inclusion and have the
same opportunities as their peers; that parents and carers feel
confident and assured in the SEN/D process; that educators are
confident and capable of meeting needs; and that services are
child-centred, high-quality, timely, effective and
efficient.”
The Framework has been informed by the findings of the End to End
(E2E) Review of SEN/D and the 200 recommendations identified
through scrutiny reports.
continued: “The Outcomes
Framework focuses on building a system where our children and
young people get the right support, from the right people, at the
right time and in the right place.
“By working towards these outcomes, we aim to enhance the
quality of education and support services, while strengthening
trust and collaboration among educators, parents, and carers.
This will enable children and young people with additional
support needs to thrive in school, at home and in their local
community.”
The Minister concluded: “I look forward to the delivery
of the SEN/D Reform Agenda over the coming years, to measuring
our progress annually and communicating developments to all
stakeholders.”
The Framework was developed in close collaboration with parents
and carers, Community and Voluntary sector representatives,
academics, practitioners, Government departments and Arm's Length
Bodies (ALBs).
For more information on the SEN/D Reform Agenda Outcomes
Framework 2025-2030, please visit: https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/sen-reform-agenda
Notes to editors:
- Monitoring and analysis of this framework will take place
throughout 2025–2030 with the indicators reviewed on a regular
basis. Performance report cards will be designed for all
interventions stood up from the SEN/D Reform Delivery Plan and
will provide the opportunity to address specific issues that may
emerge throughout each year.
