Strengthening ALN provision in Wales

Introduction

Wales is at a critical juncture in its approach to supporting children and young people with Additional Learning Needs (ALN). ). It is understood that the Welsh Government is growing the number of Specialist Resource Bases (SRBs) within mainstream schools, promoting inclusive education. While funding commitments and consultations regarding these developments are underway, success will depend on careful planning to ensure these provisions are sustainable, effective, and meet the needs of learners.

For HR professionals, school leaders, and executives in Welsh education, the changes present both opportunities and challenges that require proactive leadership.

The current picture

The ALN system in Wales has faced ongoing challenges (as highlighted in a Welsh Government written statement (2024) as well as by the Children’s Commissioner):

• Delays in implementing Individual Development Plans (IDPs).
• Limited or unsuitable facilities for specific needs.
• Unclear responsibilities between schools and local authorities.

A recent BBC report (2025) highlighted concerns that more parents are turning to home education or “Education Otherwise Than at School” (EOTAS) because schools cannot always meet ALN needs.

However, the Welsh Government allocated £20 million in May 2024 to improve ALN provision, focusing on sensory spaces, specialist classrooms, equipment, and Welsh-medium resources. This highlights a shift in focus on the availability and delivery of specialist provision.

Cardiff has been particularly active, running consultations and investing in new SRBs over recent years, specifically for: specialist provision for primary and secondary aged learners with emotional health and wellbeing needs, and specialist provision for primary aged learners with complex learning needs and/or autism.

The role of SRBs

SRBs sit between mainstream and special schools. They offer pupils access to mainstream education while providing tailored support, specialist expertise, and resources. Done well, SRBs can:

• Build school capacity and confidence in supporting complex needs.
• Provide inclusive opportunities while meeting individual needs.
• Help reintegrate learners back into mainstream settings where possible.

However, risks remain. Without long-term investment in staff training, therapies, and infrastructure, SRBs may struggle to deliver on their promise.

To be effective, SRBs require:

• Clear agreements between schools and local authorities on roles, funding, and accountability.
• Integration with wider ALN strategies, including partnerships with the independent sector for pupils with complex needs requiring more targeted, specialised support
• Ongoing professional development.

SRBs form part of a wider strategy that strengthens mainstream provision and provides early intervention to reintegrate those unable to attend mainstream settings as a result of their needs and/or lack of provision available to meet those needs, into education.

What’s Coming Next?

Following the ALN Reform National Steering Group meeting (July 2025) and the Cabinet Secretary for Education’s ALN Legislative Review, further reforms are expected in 2025/26. These may include:

• Following the School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions Document (STPCD), elevating the ALNCo role.
• A parental ALN toolkit, giving families clear guidance on navigating the system.
• Greater national consistency in ALN delivery across Wales.
• Stronger multi-agency collaboration between education, health, and social care.
• A longer-term vision for inclusive education, with SRBs forming a central part of the system.

Conclusion

For Welsh education leaders, the expansion of SRBs represents a major opportunity to balance inclusion with specialist support. When designed and implemented effectively, SRBs can restore parental confidence and strengthen the overall ALN system.

The government’s £20 million investment is a welcome starting point; though ongoing support will be essential to ensure ALN provision remains effective, inclusive, and fit for the future of Welsh education.

This article is based on information known at the date of writing (September 2025). As noted above, the position may change following the ongoing ALN reviews taking place. We advise all who work with ALN to be mindful of the pending changes and monitor government updates.