At Gendros Primary School, we believe that every child is unique and has the right to be supported to reach their full potential.
We are committed to providing an inclusive learning environment where children feel valued, listened to and able to participate fully in school life. We recognise that children learn in different ways and may need different types or levels of support at different points in their education.
Our approach to Additional Learning Needs (ALN) is based on early identification, high-quality teaching, appropriate support and working closely with children and their families.
A child has Additional Learning Needs (ALN) if they have a learning difficulty or disability which means they need Additional Learning Provision (ALP) to support them in their learning.
ALN can take many different forms and may be temporary or longer term. A child does not need to have a diagnosis to receive support.
If you have concerns about your child's learning, development or well-being, please talk to us. We want to work with you at the earliest opportunity.
The Welsh ALN system is designed around the individual child and their needs, with children and parents having a central role in decisions about support.
At Gendros, we use a graduated and responsive approach to supporting learners.
We begin with high-quality, inclusive classroom teaching and adapt our approaches to meet individual needs. Where a child requires additional support, we may provide targeted interventions, adaptations, resources or specialist support.
We work closely with:
Our aim is always to understand what helps each child to learn, participate and make progress, and to ensure that support is meaningful and appropriate.
Children and their families are at the heart of our ALN approach.
We listen to children's views, wishes and feelings and involve them and their parents/carers in decisions about their learning and support.
Where a child has an Individual Development Plan (IDP), this sets out their identified needs, the Additional Learning Provision they require and the outcomes we are working towards. IDPs are reviewed regularly and at least every 12 months, or sooner where necessary.
If you have a concern about your child's learning, development or well-being, your first point of contact should be your child's class teacher. They know your child well and will be able to discuss your concerns and consider what support may be appropriate.
If your concern is more emotional or related to your child's well-being, you may also find it helpful to speak to our Family Liaison Officer, Mrs Karen Millis. Mrs Millis works closely with families and a range of services, including the Early Help Hub and children's counselling services, to help provide the right support for children and families.
If you feel your concern may relate to Additional Learning Needs (ALN), we ask parents and carers to complete our Initial Concerns Form. This will be shared with our ALNCo, Mrs Collins, who will contact you to discuss your concerns and consider the next steps.
You do not need to have a formal diagnosis before speaking to us. We are here to listen, work in partnership with you and ensure that your child receives the support they need.
At Gendros Primary School, we recognise that every child learns differently and that some children may need additional support at different points in their education. Our aim is to identify needs early and provide appropriate support that enables every learner to participate, make progress and enjoy school.
Our support is tailored to the individual needs of each child and may include a combination of classroom strategies, targeted interventions and specialist support. Our provision includes, but is not limited to:
We also make reasonable adjustments and adaptations within the classroom to ensure that children can access learning and participate fully in school life.
Our provision is continually reviewed and developed in response to the needs of our learners. We work closely with children, parents and carers and, where appropriate, external agencies to ensure that support is meaningful, inclusive and focused on helping every child thrive.
Our aim is not simply to identify what a child finds difficult, but to understand what helps them learn, participate and succeed.
Welsh Government – ALN Parent and Carer Toolkit
A clear, accessible guide to understanding the ALN system in Wales, the support available and parents' and children's rights.
ALN Parent and Carer Toolkit
Swansea Council – Additional Learning Needs (ALN)
Information about ALN support and services available locally in Swansea, including information about professionals who can support children and families.
Swansea Council – Additional Learning Needs
Welsh Government – Additional Learning Needs: Your Rights
Information explaining the rights of children, young people and parents/carers under the ALN system.
Understanding Your Rights under the ALN System
Welsh Government – Additional Learning Needs Code for Wales
The statutory Code explaining the legal framework and responsibilities of schools, local authorities and other organisations within the ALN system.
Additional Learning Needs Code for Wales
Independent information, advice and support for parents and young people around ALN.