New classes for pupils with additional learning needs could be set up in Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT). The council is consulting on plans to increase the number of mainstream learning support classes from 48 to 52. If approved, the proposals would bring significant changes to the education landscape in the region.
Under the plans, an early years’ intervention learning support class would be established for pre-school children with significant presenting needs at Cwmaman Primary School. Additionally, a similar class would be set up at Penyrenglyn Primary School in Treherbert. There is also a proposal to create a learning support class for pupils in years 7-11 with complex learning needs at Mountain Ash Comprehensive School.
In a bid to improve accessibility and capacity, the council intends to relocate the learning support class for pupils in years 3-6 with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from Penywaun Primary School to Hirwaun Primary School. Furthermore, a learning support class for pupils in reception to year two with autistic spectrum disorder is planned at Hirwaun Primary School.
The current annual expenditure on learning support classes in RCT stands at approximately £5.8m, with around 420 pupils across various needs benefiting from the existing 48 classes. This marks a notable increase from the 330 pupils accessing 46 classes back in October 2018.
Challenges such as exceeding optimal capacity in some early years classes and a shortfall of provisions for secondary pupils with complex learning difficulties have necessitated these proposed changes. The lack of secondary phase specialist provision in the Cynon Valley has led to pupils having to travel to other areas for suitable support.
The report highlighted the need for a robust continuum of provision across all year groups to address a wide range of needs effectively. It aims to reduce unnecessary transitions between schools by establishing cross-phase specialist provisions within individual schools wherever possible. The goal is to create fully accessible learning environments suitable for 21st-century education.
The council’s education scrutiny committee is set to discuss the matter in a meeting on October 14. The consultation period runs from September to November, allowing stakeholders to provide feedback and insights on the proposed changes. If implemented, these new classes could significantly enhance the support and resources available for pupils with additional learning needs in RCT.