JakTrack
Get StartedSign In
All Local Authorities

Additional Support for Learning (ASL) Services in North Ayrshire

ScotlandCouncil Area
Council website

North Ayrshire, a council area spanning 342 square miles with a mix of coastal towns and rural communities, faces notable deprivation challenges that shape its approach to SEND support in North Ayrshire, including the third highest proportion of deprived data zones in Scotland. Despite these pressures, the council is committed to improving services amid high school absence rates, the highest in Scotland at 89.1% attendance in 2023-24, which can impact children with additional needs. Parents can turn to Enquire, Scotland's independent SEND advice service, for free, impartial guidance to navigate local options with confidence.

In North Ayrshire's landscape of high absence rates and stretched services, JakTrack steps in as a reassuring companion, helping families feel prepared and in control as they track daily patterns and build a clear picture of their child's needs over time. Starting early lets that evidence grow naturally, empowering you to approach appointments, CSP processes, and benefit checks with quiet confidence and strong support. It's like having a trusted ally right in your pocket, turning uncertainty into steady progress for your family. see how JakTrack can help

Schools & ASN Provision

59

Schools

1

Specialist

5

ASN Units & Resource Bases

16,811

Total Pupils

39.7%receive Additional Support

6,668 pupils

Additional Support for Learning (ASL)

North Ayrshire 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:

Enquire

Scottish national advice service for additional support for learning

My Rights, My Say

Helping children and young people have their say about their support

Scottish Government ASL guidance

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

0345 123 2303[email protected]Website

Schools

years old

Lockhart Campus

Special100% ASN
Ages 5-18209 pupils with ASNKA20 3JX
Website

Elderbank Primary School

Primary49.6% ASN
Ages 5-12177 pupils with ASNKA11 1LA
Website

Dreghorn Primary School

Primary44.2% ASN
Ages 5-12102 pupils with ASNKA11 4AP
Website

Hayocks Primary School

Primary44% ASN
Ages 5-1280 pupils with ASNKA20 4HG
Website

St Bridget's Primary School

Primary42.7% ASN
Ages 5-1276 pupils with ASNKA25 6EJ
Website

Ardrossan Academy

Secondary40.2% ASN
Ages 12-18306 pupils with ASNKA22 8AR
Website

Understanding 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 North Ayrshire.

Contact your child's head teacher for advice on identifying additional support needs and responding to requests for assessment. If your child needs significant ongoing support from education and non-education services, a Co-ordinated Support Plan (CSP) will be drawn up. For independent advice, reach out to Enquire at 0345 123 2303 or [email protected].
North Ayrshire's SENDIASS service, called Enquire, offers independent advice and information for parents and families of children with additional support needs. They can help with understanding your child's rights, the assessment process, and support options like the Co-ordinated Support Plan. Call them on 0345 123 2303 or email [email protected] for support.
North Ayrshire has 1 specialist school for children with additional support needs. There are also 5 schools with SEN units to provide targeted support. Most children attend mainstream schools with extra help through the staged intervention model.[data]
The Local Offer explains the support available for children with additional needs in North Ayrshire, including education, health, and care services. It covers things like assessments, school placements, and family advice. Visit the North Ayrshire Council website at www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk for details on additional support for learning.
Speak to your child's head teacher first, who can offer advice and contact the Educational Psychology service if needed. The council must identify needs, provide support, and respond to parent requests for assessment under Scottish law. For complex cases needing a Co-ordinated Support Plan, Enquire can guide you through the process.

Navigating SEND in North Ayrshire?

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.

See How JakTrack Helps