Archibald announces new proposals to support school leavers with special educational needs

Date published: 16 June 2025

In a statement to the Assembly, the Minister set out wide-ranging proposals for improved provision, enhanced learner support and strengthened foundations, encompassing areas including learning in further education and higher education settings, apprenticeships, and careers advice and guidance.

The Minister said: 
“Supporting young people with SEN is a key priority in the Programme for Government, reflecting our commitment to ensuring that every young person in our society is given the opportunity to thrive.

“Following a review of current provision and legislative protections, I am bringing forward proposals which will enhance opportunities for school leavers with SEN to access the learning, support and guidance they need and deserve.”

Proposals include putting in place a dedicated Transition Support Service for learners to facilitate the move beyond school to subsequent learning pathways. In parallel, there are plans for increased investment to expand and improve accessible provision in further education colleges, and legislation to underpin a new assessment and support model for further education learners with additional learning support needs.

Also planned are measures to increase access to apprenticeships and opportunities in higher education settings for those with learning disabilities, to enable more inclusive pathways and raise aspirations.

Proposed improvements to the Department’s Careers Service include innovative software solutions for autistic people and a new careers portal which will provide inclusive and equitable access to careers information, tools and resources for people of all ages and backgrounds.

In conclusion, the Minister said: 
“These proposals aim to break down the barriers that too often hinder young people with disabilities from reaching their full potential after school. These plans will require significant collaboration and I will work with colleagues across the Executive to secure the resources and changes needed to support young people with SEN.” 

The Minister’s full statement to the Assembly, and a summary of the review of the education, skills and training provision, and associated legislative protections, for young people with special educational needs, are available on the DfE website.