What does an ALNCo do in Wales, and what should parents ask?
An ALNCo is the Additional Learning Needs Co-ordinator in a school or further-education setting. The role includes strategic responsibility for coordinating ALN arrangements and helping ensure learners with ALN have appropriate IDPs and provision.
Wales has its own ALN framework. England EHCP guidance does not apply to learners educated in Wales.
What the ALNCo role covers
The ALNCo has overall responsibility for coordinating ALN provision across the setting. The role includes helping ensure ALN decisions and IDPs are coordinated, liaising with relevant services, and supporting the setting to meet its duties.
Questions to ask
- What needs has the school identified?
- What support is currently in place?
- How is progress being measured?
- Has the school made a formal ALN decision?
- Who is responsible for preparing and reviewing the IDP?
- Does outside specialist advice need to be requested?
What the ALNCo cannot replace
An ALNCo does not replace the legal responsibilities of the school or local authority. If you disagree with a formal decision, ask for the written decision and use the reconsideration or appeal route that applies.
Prepare for the meeting
Bring a short list of your main concerns, examples showing the impact on learning, and the three most important changes you want discussed. Ask for agreed actions and timescales in writing afterwards.
Official and authoritative sources
Welsh Government — ALN parent and carer toolkit
Welsh Government — ALN system: your rights
Welsh Government — decision-making and communication
Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018
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