Parents Exhausted, MLAs Informed of Growing Concerns
Concerns surrounding special educational needs (SEN) have prompted action from education authorities, as parents express exhaustion over the ongoing challenges. In a recent address to Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), Richard Pengelly, head of the Education Authority (EA), provided insights into the measures being taken to address these issues.
Progress on School Places for SEN Children
Mr. Pengelly revealed that the EA has initiated plans to provide more school places for children with SEN, targeting September 2026 for implementation. Early in this school year, the authority began identifying potential placements, collaborating with hundreds of mainstream and special schools.
Additional School Places Created
In addition to future plans, the EA announced that it created 1,300 new school places across 120 establishments for the 2025 academic year. However, some students faced challenges in starting school as certain classrooms were not completed in time.
Collaboration with Teaching Unions
To overcome these hurdles, Mr. Pengelly stated that teaching unions are working alongside the EA to address and resolve the issues affecting SEN children.
Challenges and Financial Shortfalls
Despite efforts to improve the situation, Mr. Pengelly acknowledged significant financial obstacles. He indicated that the EA faces a budget shortfall of £300 million, which hampers current operations and any potential expansions or further investments.
Educational Needs Identification
Currently, more than 62,000 school-age children have been identified as having a special educational need. This statistic highlights the urgency to enhance educational provisions and more effectively support this vulnerable group of children.
As discussions continue, parents remain hopeful for substantial changes and improvements in the education system for children with SEN, seeking assurance from the EA and local authorities.
