EDUCATION unions have demanded that the Welsh government take urgent action to provide money for schools for children with additional learning needs (ALN).

Seven unions made the demands today following the publication of a report from the Senedd’s children, young people and education scrutiny committee.

The report found that many children with disabilities or additional learning needs are being denied the right to an education.

NEU Cymru’s Nicola Fitzpatrick said: “Our members tell us the situation for children needing support with additional learning needs is critical.

“The Welsh government needs to act now to ensure there is enough funding for schools. If we don’t act quickly, we are failing our most vulnerable children.” 

NASUWT Cymru’s Neil Butler said: “The Welsh government needs to clarify the responsibilities of schools and the local authorities and consider ring-fencing the funds earmarked for children living with ALN to ensure they receive the support they need.”

Unison’s Rosie Lewis said: “Teaching assistants are telling us they’re not able to respond to pupils with ALN in the way they would wish. 

“More funding from Welsh government is needed to support the delivery of ALN. There is currently a recruitment crisis in schools.”

NAHT Cymru’s Laura Doel said: “These reports confirm what we already know to be the case — schools simply do not have the capacity to deliver for the most vulnerable learners because the system is drastically underfunded.”

The Welsh government said it will continue to work with the Disability Rights Taskforce to listen to families, disabled children and young people as it considered this work alongside the Senedd committee’s report and recommendations.