We have reviewed the Additional Learning Needs legislative framework to ensure that it is clear and consistently understood.
Documents
Additional Learning Needs (ALN) legislative framework: summary of responses , file type: PDF, file size: 321 KB
Details
Overview
The Welsh Government has undertaken a review of the Additional Learning Needs (ALN) legislative framework. The review examined the clarity and consistency of the legislative framework to identify opportunities to strengthen understanding and effective delivery of the ALN system across Wales.
Information gathered
In early 2025, key delivery partners and stakeholders were invited to provide information to understand their experience of delivering the ALN system and the practical challenges they face. We received 54 written responses and a summary of those responses are published in the document section.
The Education Tribunal Wales (ETW) was invited to provide information on their experience from cases registered by ETW, enquiries and those that do not reach valid appeals. ETW will publish its evidence separately.
Outcome of the review
Taken together, all of the evidence will inform the Welsh Government and system wide commitment to delivery and improvement.
An update on the review of the ALN legislative framework was published on 10 July 2025.
The Cabinet Secretary for Education made an Oral statement in the Senedd on 14 October 2025.
The statement provided an update on Additional Learning Needs (ALN) reform in Wales, highlighting strong support for person centred practice and recognising the dedication to the cultural shift towards inclusive education whilst creating over 32,000 statutory individual development plans for learners with ALN.
5 priorities for the next phase were set out:
- clarifying who and how learners with ALN get support
- ensuring national consistency
- improving support for families
- strengthening multi-agency integration
- advancing bilingual and inclusive education
The statement emphasises that sustained effort and collective partnership are needed to deliver a fair, inclusive system where every learner receives the support they need to thrive.