Special Educational Needs (SEN) / Additional Learning Needs (ALN)

The Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Bill was passed by the National Assembly for Wales on 12 December 2017 and became an Act on 24 January 2018 after receiving Royal Assent. Alongside this sits the Additional Learning Needs Code (2021) and regulations, which were approved by the Senedd on 23 March 2021. Along with the ALN Act 2018, the Code and regulations will create the statutory ALN system in Wales. It will replace existing legislation surrounding special educational needs (SEN).

The ALN Code provides statutory guidance on the exercise of functions under Part 2 of the 2018 Act and on other matters connected with identifying and meeting ALN. The ALN system aims to transform the expectations, experiences and outcomes for children and young people with ALN. It places the learners’ views, wishes and feelings at the heart of the process of planning the support required to enable them to learn effectively and achieve their full potential. From September 2021, the ALN system will come into force over a three-year phased implementation period.

Additional Learning Needs (ALN) in Wales - What's happening? 

For further information on these upcoming changes, please click on the following links:

Ty'n y Wern - Your Child and the ALN Act

CCBC - Additional Learning Needs - Transformation

Welsh Government - Additional Learning Needs - Transformation

Welsh Government - Additional Learning Needs - FAQs

SNAP Cymru - Additional Learning Needs - Transformation

Please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Laura Howard our Additional Learning Needs Coordinator (ALNCO) if you have any questions or concerns.