Additional Learning Needs
Additional Learning Needs (ALN) information for parents
The principles underpinning the ALN system in Wales, aim to support the creation of a fully inclusive education system where all learners are given the opportunity to succeed and have access to an education that meets their needs and enables them to participate in, benefit from, and enjoy learning.
We are committed to promoting high standards of appropriate achievement and progress for all learners with additional learning needs.
When does a child have Additional Learning Needs (ALN)?
The term ‘Special Educational Need’ (SEN) is being phased out in favour of the term ‘Additional Learning Need’ (ALN). A learner has ALN if he or she has a learning difficulty or disability which calls for Additional Learning Provision (ALP). ALP means educational provision that is additional to or different from that made generally for others of the same age in a mainstream setting.
Many children may experience difficulties in a range of areas of school life at some point during their education. For example:
- schoolwork
- reading, writing, number work or understanding information
- expressing themselves or understanding what others are saying.
- making friends or relating to adults
- behaving appropriately in school
- organising themselves
- some kind of sensory or physical needs which may affect them in school.
A Graduated Response
Often, with the appropriate help, structure, and reasonable adjustments, progress can be maintained and the child will not be regarded as having an ALN. We call this level of support ‘universal provision’.
If, having made adjustments and correct alterations to enable the child to access learning, there remains a concern over progress, the child may be identified as needing ‘targeted support’ (intervention) possibly with some targets although this may not always be appropriate. This may need the help of an outside agency for support or it may be a need which we can cater for ably in school.
If the child has a complex additional learning need beyond the standard classroom context and planning they will need specific support or ‘ALP’. This may require a bespoke learning plan or timetable, access to a teaching assistant for support, and multi-agency involvement.
What shall I do if I am concerned over my child’s progress?
Firstly, try to remember that children make progress at different rates and have different ways of learning best. Your child’s teacher will take account of this by looking at how they plan their lessons, resources, classroom and materials. Try to avoid comparing your child to others in the early years.
If you continue to have concerns over their progress you can ask to meet with their teacher or head teacher. You could ask us if:
- the school thinks your child is having difficulties.
- your child is able to work at the same level as others of the same age
- your child is already getting extra help or what reasonable adjustments are being made
- you can help your child.
Together, we will work on a next step and try to address any issues they may be experiencing. Each child is different and will need an individualised approach and secure understanding of their need. This may take a little time to determine.
If we are in agreement, we may need to seek help from and Educational Psychologist, or other agency support to assist with identifying the specific need and how best to support them. Occasionally it may be recommended that they be assessed for a diagnosis.
Our overall ALNCo for the school is Mr Bates or, alternatively, you can speak to one of the senior teachers as they all carry out ALN roles:
- Mrs Price – Nursery and Year 1
- Miss Talemi – Year 1 and 2
- Mr Freebury – Year 3 and 4
- Mr Williams – Year 5 and 6
Useful Documents:
Implementing the additional learning needs system between September 2021 and August 2024: a guide for parents and families.
A Guide for Parents about rights under the additional learning needs (ALN) system.
You may also wish to seek advice from SNAP Cymru, an independant organisation set up to support parents of children with ALN: