Additional Learning Needs

In Llandaff City all class work is carefully prepared, differentiated and structured to ensure that each child progresses at a pace which is appropriate to them. However, children develop at different rates and some may have specific or general learning difficulties which inhibits their learning. Some children also have additional learning needs in response to medical, emotional, social, behavioural or second language factors. Occasionally it may be necessary for a child to have a Statement of Special Educational Needs or from September 2021 an Individual Development Plan [IDP], which would outline the support we will provide to ensure that they make the best possible progress.

We actively promote equality within our School and have a Disability Access Plan which supports our inclusive approach. Applications by parents of children with disabilities or specific impairments are welcomed. We strive to ensure that all our pupils are able to access both the environment and the curriculum and will work closely with the Local Authority and or Diocese to achieve this.

Following ALN reform in Wales the way children and young people with special educational needs are supported is changing. The Welsh Government passed new legislation called the Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act [2018], and Additional Learning Needs (ALN) Code for Wales 2021, which replaces all of the legislation and guidance in relation to special educational needs. The act makes provision for a new statutory framework for supporting children and young people with additional learning needs (ALN). This reform will be implemented over a 3 year period which commenced September 1^ST 2021. Arrangements for children who have a statement of education needs will remain in place for this academic year. Further information will be updated on our website once Welsh Government confirms more details.

Within the new ALN Code the definition of ALN includes:

•  A child has a significantly greater difficulty in learning than the majority of others of the same age
• A child has a disability for the purposes of the Equality Act 2010 which prevents or hinders them from making use of the educational facilities generally provided for others of the same age in mainstream maintained school or Further Education Institute.

Therefore, children who previously had SEN may now no longer meet the criteria for ALN however support will remain in place through a range of effective universal provision in our school. Examples include differentiated tasks and individual or group intervention programmes. Where a child may experience a weakness in a particular area and require more personalised support class teachers will discuss and share Class Action Target Plans with parents. These will be monitored regularly and reviewed with parents and their individual child. Specialist support may also be sought if appropriate from external agencies such as the Educational Psychologist or Specialist Teachers from the Local Authority. At Llandaff City we have an ALNCo (Additional Learning Needs Co-ordinator) teacher who is specifically appointed to ensure that the needs of each child are met. Mrs Claire Todd can be contacted via the school email llandaffprm@cardiff.gov.uk or telephone the school office – 02920565932.

If progress is not evident over a period of time then an investigation process may begin to determine if the child has ALN. This process is 35 term time days and involves a PCP meeting with all those involved supporting the individual child. During this process the child will be at the heart of any decision making and their views considered throughout.

If ALN are identified then an IDP will be formulated and the ALP implemented at the end of the 35 days. If ALN are not identified then the child will continue with the Class Action Targets and strategies shared with parents for use at home.

Should parents not agree with this decision then they can appeal to the Local Authority who have 4 weeks to respond.

Further information can be found on our website or visit the ALN section of the Welsh Government website https://gov.wales/additional-learning-needs

"At Llandaff City we aim to help and support all our children as quickly and as comprehensively as possible and work closely together with parents to achieve this aim."