Additional Support for Learning (ASL) Services in Dumfries and Galloway
Dumfries and Galloway, a rural council area spanning wide open spaces and smaller communities across southwest Scotland, shapes SEND support in unique ways, with services tailored to families often living further apart than in urban neighbours. While facing mid-range deprivation levels where about 19% of residents live in Scotland's most deprived zones, the area benefits from steady employment rates around 68% and ongoing health and social care efforts like participation strategies to meet local needs. Parents navigating this can turn to the Dumfries & Galloway Advocacy Service for free, impartial advice on ASN support, helping ease the journey with reassuring local knowledge.
In Dumfries and Galloway's spread-out communities, where families might feel the distance to support a little more keenly, JakTrack steps in as a reassuring companion right in your pocket, helping you feel prepared, supported, and truly in control as you navigate ASN journeys. By gently tracking daily moments like sleep, meals, and behaviours, it uncovers patterns over time with simple AI insights, building a clear picture that strengthens your voice at appointments or CSP meetings - starting early makes all the difference. It's that quiet confidence boost, designed just for parents like you. see how JakTrack can help
Schools & ASN Provision
107
Schools
4
Specialist
31
ASN Units & Resource Bases
17,467
Total Pupils
7,938 pupils
Additional Support for Learning (ASL)
Dumfries and Galloway 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.
Dumfries & Galloway Advocacy Service (local Enquire-linked ASN advice)
ASN / CSP Team
The team responsible for Coordinated Support Plans (CSPs) and additional support.
ASN Team
Supporting Learners Team
Short Breaks & Respite
Schools
Dalry Secondary School
Secondary76.9% ASNSanquhar Academy
Secondary65.9% ASNNorth West Community Campus
All-through64.1% ASNLocharbriggs School
Primary62.4% ASNPark School
Primary61.5% ASNLangholm Academy
Secondary60.7% ASNMoffat Academy
All-through58.6% ASNLincluden School
Primary58.5% ASNNoblehill School
Primary58.4% ASNKirkcudbright Academy
Secondary54.2% ASNStranraer Academy
Secondary54% ASNCastle Douglas High School
Secondary52% ASNDouglas Ewart High School
Secondary51.5% ASNMinnigaff School
Primary51.4% ASNDumfries Academy
Secondary50.6% ASNDalbeattie High School
Secondary49.4% ASNPenninghame School
Primary49.4% ASNAnnan Academy
Secondary47.4% ASNSanquhar Primary School
Primary46% ASNBelmont School
Primary44% ASNWallace Hall Academy
Secondary43.4% ASNCastle Douglas Primary School
Primary41.6% ASNLochmaben School
Primary40.9% ASNSt Joseph's College
Secondary39% ASNDumfries High School
Secondary38.2% ASNCalside School
Primary37.3% ASNKelloholm School
Primary35.5% ASNLockerbie Primary School
Primary34.6% ASNGeorgetown School
Primary33.6% ASNLockerbie Academy
Secondary32.7% ASNNewington School
Primary26.9% 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 Dumfries and Galloway.
Navigating SEND in Dumfries and Galloway?
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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