Additional Support for Learning (ASL) Services in Aberdeen City
Aberdeen City, Scotland's third largest city with its sparkling granite buildings and sandy coastline, offers a range of SEND support tailored to its urban families amidst a diverse population that includes many born outside the UK. As a bustling hub with strong employment rates - second highest among UK cities - yet facing challenges like net migration out and cost-of-living pressures, the council works to meet children's needs through accessible services, including independent advice from Enquire, Scotland's SENDIASS. Parents new to the system can feel reassured knowing local efforts address wellbeing improvements for young people, even as economic inactivity affects one in four working-age residents.
In Aberdeen City's bustling environment, where families juggle strong employment alongside cost-of-living pressures, JakTrack empowers you to feel prepared and supported from day one. As your daily logs of sleep, meals, and behaviour quietly build a powerful evidence base over time - especially valuable when starting early - you'll walk into Enquire sessions or CSP meetings feeling truly in control, with AI insights highlighting patterns that make all the difference. It's like having a trusted companion that turns everyday moments into the clarity you need. see how JakTrack can help
Schools & ASN Provision
62
Schools
3
Specialist
31
ASN Units & Resource Bases
26,305
Total Pupils
10,987 pupils
Additional Support for Learning (ASL)
Aberdeen City operates under the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004. Instead of EHCPs, children here may receive a Coordinated Support Plan (CSP).
Scotland Support Organisations
These national organisations can help families in Scotland navigate the additional support system:
Scottish national advice service for additional support for learning
Helping children and young people have their say about their support
Official guidance on additional support for learning
Local Services & Contacts
Enquire / ASN Advice
Free, independent advice and support for families navigating additional support needs in Scotland.
Enquire
ASN Team
Aberdeen City Council Education, Culture and Corporate Services
Schools
Holy Family RC School
Primary76.1% ASNSeaton School
Primary71% ASNSt Machar Academy
Secondary66.8% ASNNorthfield Academy
Secondary61.7% ASNSunnybank School
Primary61.1% ASNManor Park School
Primary59.8% ASNBridge Of Don Academy
Secondary57.8% ASNHarlaw Academy
Secondary56.7% ASNBucksburn Academy
Secondary56.1% ASNKaimhill School
Primary55.2% ASNMuirfield School
Primary50.3% ASNBrimmond School
Primary47.4% ASNRiverbank School
Primary47.1% ASNOldmachar Academy
Secondary46.1% ASNGlashieburn School
Primary45.4% ASNLoirston School
Primary41.2% ASNAberdeen Grammar School
Secondary40.5% ASNFernielea School
Primary40.3% ASNScotstown School
Primary40.2% ASNTullos School
Primary38.6% ASNDyce Academy
Secondary37.1% ASNWoodside School
Primary36.7% ASNHazlehead Academy
Secondary36.2% ASNQuarryhill School
Primary36% ASNDyce School
Primary31.7% ASNCults School
Primary29.9% ASNHazlehead School
Primary27.8% ASNKirkhill School
Primary26.9% ASNCults Academy
Secondary26.1% ASNMile End School
Primary25.6% ASNGilcomstoun School
Primary12.6% ASNUnderstanding ASN provision in Scotland
Scotland operates under the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004, which takes a broader approach to identifying children who need extra help. Here's what you need to know:
Additional Support Needs (ASN)
Under the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004, a child has additional support needs if they need more or different support to access education. This is broader than England's SEND definition - it can include family circumstances, bereavement, or English as an additional language, as well as disabilities and learning difficulties.
Coordinated Support Plan (CSP)
A CSP is Scotland's equivalent of an EHCP, reserved for children with complex or multiple needs requiring support from education AND at least one other agency (health, social work). Most children with ASN won't have a CSP - they'll receive support through the school's own planning. CSPs have legal protections including tribunal appeal rights.
Additional Support for Learning Coordinator
Every school should have someone responsible for coordinating additional support. While not a statutory role like England's SENCO, most schools designate a teacher or member of the leadership team to oversee ASN provision, coordinate with external agencies, and work with families.
Child's Plan & GIRFEC
Scotland's Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) framework means every child who needs one gets a Child's Plan. This is less formal than a CSP but ensures coordinated support. The Named Person (usually head teacher or health visitor) helps coordinate services. Most children with ASN are supported through a Child's Plan rather than a CSP.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from families about SEND support in Aberdeen City.
Navigating SEND in Aberdeen City?
JakTrack helps you track evidence, prepare for Coordinated Support Plan (CSP) reviews, check benefit eligibility, and stay on top of appointments - all in one place.
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