Additional Learning Needs (ALN) Services in Merthyr Tydfil
Merthyr Tydfil is a local authority in Wales where SEND support services operate within a community facing significant socioeconomic challenges, with higher levels of deprivation than the Welsh average and notably higher rates of health-related benefit claims compared to many other areas. Parents navigating the SEND system here will find support through SNAP Cymru, the local SENDIASS service, which provides free, impartial advice to help families understand their rights and options during the assessment and planning process. The authority has a relatively high proportion of young people living in low-income families, which can intersect with SEND needs and access to services, making it particularly important to know what support is available locally. This page brings together the key information about SEND provision in Merthyr Tydfil to help you understand the landscape and connect with the right services for your child.
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Schools & ALN Provision
25
Schools
24
With ALN Data
1,830
ALN Reports
15.8%
Avg ALN Rate
Additional Learning Needs (ALN)
Merthyr Tydfil operates under the Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018. Instead of EHCPs, children here may receive a Individual Development Plan (IDP).
Wales Support Organisations
These national organisations can help families in Wales navigate the ALN system:
Free independent advice and support for families with ALN children in Wales
National umbrella organisation for children and young people in Wales
Official guidance on the ALN system
Local Services & Contacts
SNAP Cymru / Advice Service
Free, independent advice and support for families navigating the ALN system in Wales.
SNAP Cymru
ALN / IDP Team
The team responsible for Individual Development Plans (IDPs) under the ALN system.
Request formALN Team
Merthyr Tydfil ALN Team
Short Breaks & Respite
Short breaks informationALN Reports by Primary Need
Schools
Goetre Primary School
17.2% ALNAfon Taf High School
16.9% ALNAbercanaid Community School
16.7% ALNDowlais Primary School
16% ALNYnysowen Community Primary School
14.1% ALNCyfarthfa High School
13% ALNYsgol Gynradd Coed y Dderwen
12.6% ALNBlessed Carlo Acutis Catholic School
11.4% ALNBedlinog Community Primary School
10.9% ALNYsgol-Y-Graig Primary School
10.8% ALNEdwardsville Primary School
10.4% ALNUnderstanding ALN provision in Wales
Wales operates under the Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018, which replaced the old SEN system. Here's what you need to know:
Additional Learning Needs (ALN)
Under the ALN Act 2018, a child has ALN if they have a learning difficulty or disability that calls for additional learning provision. This replaces the old SEN system in Wales. Schools must identify and support children with ALN through a person-centred approach.
Individual Development Plan (IDP)
The IDP replaces Statements of SEN and Individual Education Plans in Wales. It's a single document that describes a child's ALN and the additional learning provision they need. Schools maintain IDPs for most children; the local authority maintains them for more complex needs.
ALN Coordinator (ALNCo)
Every school in Wales must have a designated ALNCo - similar to a SENCO in England. The ALNCo is responsible for overseeing ALN provision, coordinating IDPs, and working with families and external agencies to ensure children get the right support.
Special Schools in Wales
Wales has special schools for children with more complex needs. Placement is through the local authority and usually requires an IDP maintained by the LA. Data on specialist provision in Welsh schools is held by local authorities rather than centrally published.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from families about SEND support in Merthyr Tydfil.
Navigating SEND in Merthyr Tydfil?
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