Additional Learning Needs (ALN)

Our approach to additional learning needs (ALN)
We are committed to creating an inclusive, nurturing environment where every learner is supported to achieve their full potential. Children learn in different ways, and some may need extra help at different points in their school journey. Our approach is child centred, ensuring each learner’s strengths, needs, and voice guide our decisions.

We work closely with pupils, families, staff, and external agencies to make sure support is timely, appropriate, and effective.

Our ALNCo
Mrs Dona Williams leads ALN provision across the school, working with staff, families, and professionals to identify needs, plan support, and review progress. If you have concerns about your child's learning or wellbeing, please contact the school office and your enquiry will be directed to her.

What are additional learning needs?
A learner has ALN if they have a learning difficulty or disability that requires support beyond what is usually provided.

Support may relate to:

• Cognition and learning
  
• Communication and interaction
  
• Social, emotional, and mental health
  
• Sensory or physical needs
  
• Medical needs affecting learning
  

Every child is unique, and support is tailored accordingly.

How we identify ALN
We identify needs through:

• Teacher observations and assessments
  
• Progress monitoring
  
• Parent or carer concerns
  
• Learner voice
  
• Advice from external agencies
  
• Wellbeing or behaviour indicators
  

Early identification helps us put support in place quickly.

How support works
We use a graduated approach so support can be adapted as needed.

Foundational support
All learners benefit from:

• High quality teaching
  
• Inclusive strategies
  
• Differentiated activities
  
• Pastoral support
  
• Classroom adaptations

Targeted support
Some learners may access short term or small group interventions delivered by:

• Miss Moni - Foundation Phase
  
• Miss Ceri - Key Stage 2
  
• Miss Beth - Emotional Wellbeing Officer
  

These sessions help develop skills, confidence, and emotional wellbeing.

Individualised support
For some learners, support may include:

• Individual Development Plans (IDPs)
  
• Personalised strategies
  
• Specialist advice
  
• Multi agency involvement

Individual development plans (IDPs)
An IDP outlines a learner's needs, the support they receive, and their targets. Parents, carers, and learners are fully involved in the process to ensure support is meaningful and personalised.

Working with families
We value strong home-school partnerships. We work with families to:

• Share concerns and successes
  
• Review progress
  
• Plan next steps
  
• Maintain clear communication
  

Parents are encouraged to speak to class teachers or the ALNCo with any questions or concerns.

Working with external agencies
When needed, we work with professionals such as:

• Educational Psychologists
  
• Speech and Language Therapists
  
• Occupational Therapists
  
• Health professionals
  
• Specialist advisory teachers
  
• Emotional wellbeing services
  
• Local Authority ALN teams
  

This ensures learners receive specialist, joined up support.

Child centred practice
We ensure that:

• Learners are listened to
  
• Strengths are recognised
  
• Support is personalised
  
• Decisions are collaborative
  
• Wellbeing is prioritised

Transition support
We support learners during key transitions, including:

• Nursery to school
  
• Moving between year groups
  
• Primary to secondary
  
• Mid year admissions
  

Support may include extra visits, meetings, and personalised preparation.

Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I'm worried about my child?
Speak to your child's class teacher first. They may involve the ALNCo if needed.

How is support decided?
Through assessments, observations, progress information, and discussions with families and professionals.

Will my child always need extra support?
Not necessarily. Some support is short term, others may need longer term help.

How often is support reviewed?
Regularly, and adjusted when needed.

Our commitment
We are dedicated to ensuring every child feels supported, valued, and included. Through personalised support and strong partnerships, we aim to help every learner thrive academically and emotionally.