Special Educational Needs: Peter Weir launches consultation on improving provision

The minister has also announced a £7.5 million funding package to create a new SEN framework which will provide schools with additional resources.

The consultation comes after a scathing Audit Office report called for an “urgent overhaul” of the system to improve SEN provision.

Auditors found that only 15% of SEN statements from the Education Authority – setting out a child’s needs and the help they should have – are issued within the 26-week statutory limit.

Launching the new consultation at Tullygally Primary School in Craigavon on Wednesday morning, Mr Weir said: “Children and young people with special educational needs are among the most vulnerable in our society.

“I am determined to improve the current system of special educational provision and support pupils with SEN to meet their full potential. I want to ensure that parents and children have access to an effective system that is accountable and meets their needs in a more straightforward and responsive way.”

The minister said the proposed changes to the current system will include a defined period in which assessments must be carried out and decisions implemented.

“Children and parents will also have new rights that will ensure services meet their needs. The Education Authority will be required to publish an annual plan of arrangements for SEN provision and each child with SEN will be required to have a Personal Learning Plan (PLP),” he said.

“I encourage all those with an interest in this important area to provide their views and contribute to the consultation. I reiterate my thanks to all those who have played a role in helping the Department to develop aspects of the new SEN Framework.”

Last year there were 67,224 children with a reported special educational need in Northern Ireland, including those with and without formal statements.

The latest Audit Office report highlighted the importance of swift intervention with children with special needs and said the earlier issues were identified, the less likely a statement would be required.

Mr Weir has described the new SEN provision as a significant investment.

“Support for pupils with SEN is a vital and valued service, and it is important to ensure that this support is sustainable and can produce lasting outcomes for our pupils,” he said.

“Schools are under pressure and I acknowledge that implementation of a new SEN Framework will have an additional resourcing impact for schools. In recognition of this, I am therefore announcing a further £7.5m to be made available to schools for the 2020/21 year for the period January to March 2021,” the minister added.

The Department for Education said the consultation, which includes new draft Regulations and Code of Practice, will provide more detail on rights for parents and children and will provide schools with clear and practical guidance on identifying and supporting children with SEN.

The 12 week public consultation is open until December 22 and is available to access on the department’s website here

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