A Plaid Cymru government will address key challenges in the Additional Learning Needs (ALN) system in Wales. We will take immediate action to begin restoring the system’s long-term sustainability after years of severe and sustained pressure.
We will:
- Simplify and clarify the ALN system for schools and colleges, learners and families – ensuring it better reflects what schools can achieve, and that implementation of the ALN Act and Code is consistent across all local authorities.
- Equip every educator to support learners with ALN by making ALN training mandatory for all teachers and teaching assistants, both within initial teacher education and as part of ongoing professional development.
- Complete the transition of Additional Learning Needs Coordinators (ALNCos) to the leadership pay scale and align their working conditions with other school leaders, recognising the strategic importance of their role.
- Work to expand Welsh-medium ALN provision, ensuring that children and families can access support in their first or target language.