Welsh govt to invest £20m to improve ALN facilities in schools
This latest investment is in addition to the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, which is investing £750m over the next nine years
The Welsh government has announced a £20m investment in schools to create new and improved classrooms and equipment for children and young people with additional learning needs (ALN).
It comes as over £80m has been allocated to the sector over the last three years to transform learning spaces for learners with ALN.
This latest investment is in addition to the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, which is investing £750m over the next nine years to improve existing facilities and create new specialist provision for ALN learners.
The sum will create inclusive learning environments such as quiet or sensory areas, upgrade facilities to improve accessibility, and enable schools and other settings to purchase new equipment.
According to the Welsh government, the £20m will be distributed via local authorities to support mainstream settings, with all projects funded through the programme required to demonstrate how they are meeting the needs of learners with additional needs.
Lynne Neagle, cabinet secretary for education, said: “The £20m I’m announcing today will make a real difference to thousands of pupils with additional learning needs up and down the country, making sure they have the facilities they need to reach their full potential.”
Last year, funding supported some 249 schools across Wales to improve their facilities to support learners with ALN.
In Conwy, nearly £700k has already transformed schools over the past year, including new specialist facilities at a primary school in Llandudno.