Additional Learning Needs (ALN) Services in Swansea
SEND support in Swansea is provided within a Welsh local authority that, like much of the UK, is experiencing significant growth in the number of children identified as needing additional support. Across England and Wales, the landscape of special educational needs has shifted notably over the past decade, with increasing numbers of children accessing support for social, emotional and mental health needs, as well as speech, language and communication difficulties. If you're new to navigating SEND in Swansea, you'll find that SNAP Cymru - the local Information, Advice and Support Service - is your first port of call for impartial guidance on assessments, school choices, and your rights throughout the process. This page brings together the key information you need to understand how SEND support works locally, what to expect from the statutory assessment process, and where to find help when you need it.
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Schools & ALN Provision
100
Schools
87
With ALN Data
5,130
ALN Reports
8.9%
Avg ALN Rate
Additional Learning Needs (ALN)
Swansea 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.
ALN Team
Additional Learning Needs and Inclusion Team
ALN Reports by Primary Need
Schools
Whitestone Primary School
31.1% ALNClwyd Community Primary School
26.8% ALNMorriston Primary School
26.4% ALNTre Uchaf Primary School
22.2% ALNYsgol Gynradd Gymraeg Gellionnen
20.3% ALNTownhill Community Primary School
19.3% ALNCefn Hengoed Community School
19% ALNCwmglas Primary School
18.8% ALNTrallwn Primary School
18.6% ALNClase Primary School
16.9% ALNYsgol Gyfun Gymraeg Bryn Tawe
16.7% ALNDylan Thomas Community School
16.1% ALNBlaenymaes Primary School
15.8% ALNHafod Primary School
14.6% ALNPentrehafod School
14.2% ALNHendrefoilan Primary School
13.7% ALNDanygraig Primary School
12.7% ALNPentrechwyth Primary School
12.6% ALNGwyrosydd Primary
11.9% ALNBirchgrove Comprehensive School
11.8% ALNCadle Primary School
11.6% ALNPortmead Primary School
11.1% ALNPengelli Primary School
10.9% ALNSea View Community Primary School
10.6% ALNPontarddulais Primary School
10.5% ALNCraigfelen Primary School
10.4% ALNSt Helen's 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 Swansea.
Navigating SEND in Swansea?
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