Carmarthenshire County Council has commissioned David Davies, former Head of Additional Learning Needs and Wellbeing for Vale of Glamorgan Council, to conduct an independent review of the Additional Learning Needs (ALN) specialist provision in Llanelli. The review will assess the current facilities and make recommendations for future improvements. 

Starting 9 September 2024, Davies will meet with learners, parents, staff, governors, and stakeholders to gather insights and feedback. The council has emphasized that any proposals developed from this review will undergo a full public consultation. 

In the interim, Carmarthenshire Council is investing £0.5 million to upgrade facilities at Ysgol Heol Goffa, a school dedicated to ALN education. This investment aims to improve the current provision while longer-term plans are being formulated based on the forthcoming review. 

Cllr Glynog Davies, Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language, highlighted the council’s commitment to delivering high-quality education for ALN students: “We are fully committed to providing the best education for our ALN learners. While we await the consultant’s report, we are investing almost £0.5 million in immediate improvements to Ysgol Heol Goffa. The independent review will help shape medium- and long-term solutions.” 

The review will present a range of costed options for the council to consider, with the report expected in the coming months. Cllr Davies also addressed challenges related to rising construction costs that have hindered the planned development of a new special school for Heol Goffa. The council has requested additional funding from the Welsh Government, but the request has been declined. 

Despite these challenges, Carmarthenshire Council remains committed to enhancing ALN provisions in Llanelli. “We look forward to working closely with Ysgol Heol Goffa’s Governing Body to ensure the best outcomes for our learners,” added Cllr Davies. 

Read more: https://theeducationview.com/