The Education Committee in Northern Ireland discusses the pressing issue of special educational needs (SEN) provision, with concerns raised about the increasing demand for SEN places in schools. Education Minister Paul Givan acknowledges that over 1,000 children with SEN require school placements in September. Departmental representative Ms. Scallon highlights a significant rise in the number of children with SEN over the past five years, necessitating an additional 1,000 school places and the establishment of new specialist classes. However, she expresses disappointment that some mainstream schools have declined to create specialist provision due to concerns about support, space, or lack of interest. The committee members express alarm over the situation, labeling it a “crisis” and criticizing the lack of confidence in the system’s ability to meet children’s needs effectively.
Over 100 schools in Northern Ireland decline to offer additional Special Educational Needs (SEN) classes.
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