Children’s rights in additional support for learning in Scotland
Children aged 12 to 15 may be able to exercise specified rights under Scotland’s Additional Support for Learning framework where the legal capacity and wellbeing safeguards are met.
Scotland uses the Additional Support for Learning framework. A Co-ordinated Support Plan (CSP) is not the Scottish equivalent of an EHCP for every learner; it has specific statutory criteria.
Which rights can apply
Eligible children can have rights concerning information, assessments, CSP matters, dispute resolution and Tribunal referrals. Some rights, including placing requests and directly requesting mediation, differ from those of parents and young people.
Capacity and wellbeing safeguards
The framework includes safeguards about whether the child has sufficient maturity and understanding and whether exercising the right would adversely affect wellbeing.
Getting support
Children can access dedicated information, advice, advocacy and representation services. Families can ask the school or authority to explain how the child’s own views and rights will be supported.
Official and authoritative sources
Scottish Government — Supporting Children’s Learning Code of Practice (2026)
Community
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