Additional Support for Learning (ASL) Services in Midlothian
Midlothian is a growing council area in Scotland with a population of nearly 100,000 that is projected to expand significantly over the coming decade, bringing both opportunities and challenges for SEND provision. The local authority serves a diverse community across both urban and rural settings, with 39 schools supporting over 14,000 pupils, including those with additional support needs. If you're new to navigating SEND support in Midlothian, you'll find practical guidance and independent advice through Enquire, the Scottish SENDIASS service, who can help you understand your rights and options at every stage of your child's education. This page brings together the key information about local SEND services, specialist provision, and how to access support - along with contact details for the professionals and services that can help your family.
As Midlothian's schools support more families with additional needs amid this rapid growth, JakTrack steps in as your trusted companion app, helping you feel prepared, supported, and truly in control when navigating CSP processes or prepping for appointments. By simply tracking daily evidence like sleep, meals, and behaviour, you'll uncover patterns through gentle AI insights and build a powerful case that strengthens over time - starting early makes all the difference for your child's journey. see how JakTrack can help
Schools & ASN Provision
39
Schools
2
Specialist
14
ASN Units & Resource Bases
14,298
Total Pupils
6,016 pupils
Additional Support for Learning (ASL)
Midlothian 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
Schools
Mayfield Primary School
Primary64% ASNSt Andrew's Primary School
Primary63.2% ASNNewbattle High School
Secondary59% ASNLawfield Primary School
Primary53.4% ASNPenicuik High School
Secondary51.7% ASNDalkeith High School
Secondary49.3% ASNLasswade High School Centre
Secondary49.2% ASNSt David's RC High School
Secondary45.5% ASNEasthouses Primary School
Primary44.7% ASNBeeslack Community High School
Secondary41.4% ASNHawthornden Primary School
Primary41.4% ASNCuiken Primary School
Primary33.5% ASNGore Glen Primary School
Primary30.2% ASNBurnbrae Primary School
Primary29.8% 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 Midlothian.
Navigating SEND in Midlothian?
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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