Additional Learning Needs - ALN

A child has additional learning needs if they have:

• a considerably greater need in learning than the majority of their peers, that can’t be met through differentiated teaching

• a disability (see the Equality Act 2010) which limits or inhibits them in accessing education or teaching that is available for them and their peers

• Or the disability and or learning disability requires Additional Learning Provision (ALP)

ALN covers a whole spectrum of needs such as cognitive, physical or sensory difficulties, emotional and behavioural difficulty or difficulty with speech and language or social interaction. From so-called ‘high functioning’ Autism through to Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and ADHD to physical disabilities or serious global learning delays/difficulties

The Additional Learning Needs (ALN) Act sets out a new statutory support system in Wales for children and young people with special needs, regardless of how complex or severe they are. It lays out changes to the way children and young people receive additional and different support (ALP) with their learning and how it will be delivered in schools. The aim being to help children and young people with ALN to overcome any barriers to learning and reach their full potential.

At Pontyclun Primary School we aim to:

• Follow the Code of Practice and guidelines as laid down by RCT 

• Ensure that early identification of a pupil’s needs is made

• Ensure that all pupils reach their full potential

• Ensure that parents are fully involved from the onset

• Work in partnership with parents, pupils and other agencies e.g. Educational Psychologist, Speech Therapists, Educational Social Worker (ESW), School Nurse, etc

• Plan appropriate programmes of work and assure they are implemented

• Provide the greatest possible access to a broad, balanced and relevant education 

• Secure the necessary provision for any pupil who has additional learning needs

Should you need any further information or have any concerns, please speak to your child's class teacher in the first instance or make an appointment to speak to the school's ALNCo, thank you.

The links below provide more information about Additional Learning Needs for 

Parent/carers and those supporting Children and Young People with ALN and for the children themselves.