New approach to SEN school placements needed – Baker
30 April 2025
Sinn Féin MLA Danny Baker has called for a new approach to school placements for children with special educational needs (SEN).
The party’s spokesperson for children and young people said:
”It is very concerning that many children with special educational needs could be without a school place in September.
”It is vital that these children receive a school place and that school places offered to them are suitable and appropriate to their needs.
”The current situation is adding to the stress and anxiety of vulnerable children and their families.
”I welcome comments made by the Education Authority at today’s Education Committee that a new approach to school placements will have to be explored.
”I have long called for a SEN first approach to school placements, this would deliver real change in our school system.
”By doing this we could provide assurance for parents, clarity for schools and would ensure the proper support required for children with SEN is in place from the beginning of term.”
