Minister Unveils Bold Plans for Special Needs Education
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced pioneering plans aiming to grant young people with special educational needs (SEN) significantly better access to learning opportunities after they leave school. Addressing the Assembly, Dr Archibald detailed proposals for enhanced educational provision, stronger learner support and reinforced foundations, which would improve learning experiences in further and higher education, apprenticeships, and broaden access to careers advice and guidance. Enhanced Educational Opportunities
Dr Archibald emphasized: "Supporting young people with SEN is a key priority in the Programme for Government, reflecting our commitment to ensuring that every young person in our society is given the opportunity to thrive." Following a review of current provision and legislative protections, I am bringing forward proposals which will enhance opportunities for school leavers with SEN to access the learning, support and guidance they need and deserve. The minister's ambitious plans include establishing a dedicated Transition Support Service for learners, facilitating their move from school to various educational pathways. Additionally, there are measures for bolstered investment to increase and enhance provision in further education colleges, along with new legislation to support a fresh assessment and support model for further education learners with additional needs. The Department is setting out measures to enhance opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities, broadening their access to apprenticeships and higher education establishments. This will create more diverse pathways and aim to uplift aspirations. Proposed improvements to the Department's Careers Service include innovative software solutions for autistic people and a new careers portal which will provide inclusive and equitable access to careers information, tools and resources for people of all ages and backgrounds. Collaborative Efforts
The Minister stated: "These proposals aim to break down the barriers that too often hinder young people with disabilities from reaching their full potential after school. These plans will require significant collaboration and I will work with colleagues across the Executive to secure the resources and changes needed to support young people with SEN." Sinn Féin MLA Danny Baker has voiced his approval for strategies introduced today in the Assembly by Minister Archibald. The party's spokesperson for children and young persons recognized the opportunity to invoke substantial positive change, urging collaborative efforts between departments to fulfill this transformative vision. Positive Movement
Mr. Baker highlighted the potential impact of the minister's new strategy, noting: "The minister's transformative proposals offer young people with special educational needs improved support when leaving school and better chances to learn new skills, go to college, or access training. For years, families have been calling for better opportunities and assistance, and it's great to see the minister responding with a clear plan to take action. It's also important departments work together so services are joined up and work with young people and their families, not against them. This must include the Health and Education Ministers committing to these changes that young people with SEN and their families need and deserve." DUP MLA Phillip Brett, who chairs Stormont's Economy Committee, acknowledged the significance of an announcement from the Economy Minister: today's statement marks a positive movement for young people with special educational needs transitioning into further education and training, yet he notes that more decisive steps are necessary.