Education minister Huw Lewis wants feedback from across the education sector – and beyond – on the Welsh government’s draft Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Bill.
The Welsh government claims that the proposed legislation, in which the term “additional learning needs” would replace “special educational needs” and “learning difficulties and/or disabilities”, would create a simpler and more streamlined legislative process to support children who have “ALN”.
The new system would include the introduction of an Individual Development Plan which “will make sure individuals’ rights to provision are protected regardless of the severity or complexity of needs”.
There would also be a new statutory ALN Code – for use across all educational settings for the entire 0 to 25 age range – providing a “set of clear, legally enforceable rules and delivering greater consistency”.
Mr Lewis said: “Over recent months we have embarked upon a radical programme of education reform aimed at raising standards across the board.
“Improving how we support some of our most vulnerable learners is a fundamental aspect of this reform package.
“We want an inclusive education system – which delivers equal access to the highest standards of education so that each and every learner in Wales is supported to reach their full potential, regardless of their personal circumstances.
“The ALN Bill has two key principles at its core – simplicity and integration. I would encourage everyone who has an interest in how we support our most vulnerable learners to take part in this consultation and ensure they have their say.”
The Welsh government is hosting consultation events later this month in Llandudno and Cardiff on the proposals contained in the draft bill.
For more details on the Bill, visit http://gov.wales/consultations/education/draft-aln-and-education-tribunal-wales-bill/