An article published by the Department of Education today outlines a five year plan for reforming the provision of support for children with special educational needs. https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/news/givan-reform-begins-children-special-educational-needs
“We know that early intervention works and it is vital that health and education are working together from the earliest stages in a child’s life to identify and respond to emerging needs. That is why I am establishing a bespoke regional programme for two to three year olds that will also include support for parents and families,” said Education Minister, Paul Givan.
This sounds promising, but as the saying goes. "the devil is in the detail" and the public need to see exactly what is proposed.
Our research has indicated that special needs support needs reviewing and reforming for all age groups throughout the education process. Yes, prevention, identification and support for pre-school children is much needed, but routine screening also needs to be incorporated at the time of school entry and at key stages throughout a child's education. This could impact not only children who eventually need special needs support but also the "hidden" statistics of children who are under-achieving now.
