Urgent action is needed to ensure every child in Scotland receives equitable support.
We welcome the Scottish Government’s Third Progress Report on the Additional Support for Learning (ASL) Action Plan published yesterday – but warns much more work is needed to support children and young people.
The report’s focus on inclusion, equity, and ongoing improvement is a positive step towards a more accessible and supportive education system for children and young people with additional support needs across Scotland. However, the AEP is calling for further and more immediate action to address crucial areas still lacking the resources and consistency required to meet every child’s needs.
The findings of yesterday’s report highlight progress has been made in many areas, including increased awareness among families and young people about their rights and the support available under the ASL framework, as well as on enhancing advocacy services for children and young people.
It outlines plans for further action through initiatives such as a National Measurement Framework and updated ASL code of practice, as well as the need for enhanced visibility and inclusivity across ASL services, greater support for educators, and increased parental engagement.
Notably it reports that significant challenges remain in implementing ASL equitably across all regions, and in allocating sufficient resources to meet the demand.
The AEP is particularly concerned with the report’s findings of inconsistent implementation of the ASL framework across regions, resource shortages, and a lack of cohesive communication between staff and parents.
The report comes as hundreds of our members gather in Edinburgh from across the four nations for our annual conference from 7 - 8 November. Focused on the theme of ‘Reclaiming Inclusion’, the subject of additional support needs will be a key area for discussion.
The challenges facing Additional Support for Learning in Scotland will be placed in the spotlight by the AEP’s conference keynote Speaker Willie Rennie MSP.
Known for his commitment to education reform in Scotland, Willie Rennie will give his perspective on the challenges facing the country’s ASL system, and the urgent reforms necessary to meet the needs of all children and young people.
For further information and to request an interview, please contact the AEP at vanessa@aep.org.uk and copy in enquiries@aep.org.uk.
Speaking ahead of the conference, AEP President David Collingwood, said: “This report shines a light on both the progress and persisting gaps in Scotland’s ASL framework. The recommendations are strong and necessary, but they need to be backed by dedicated funding, increased workforce capacity, and leadership to ensure that every child with additional support needs receives consistent, high-quality support, regardless of their location. We urge the Scottish Government to prioritise these actions and invest in the recruitment and retention of skilled staff, including educational psychologists, who are critical in delivering ASL services across Scotland.”
“The AEP remains committed to working collaboratively with the Scottish Government and other stakeholders to ensure that all children receive the support they need to thrive. We believe that with dedicated action, the ambitious goals outlined in this report can be achieved, creating a more equitable and inclusive education system for all.”
David Collingwood added: "Our conference comes at a crucial time for ASL reform in Scotland. The presence of Willie Rennie MSP, a champion for ASL improvement, underscores the need for urgent action to address the gaps in support services for our most vulnerable children and young people. We are committed to working with policymakers to create an inclusive and effective educational environment for all.
