Structural reform of our education sector is necessary, says McMurray and Truesdale
South Down MLA Andrew McMurray and Mournes Councillor Jill Truesdale have said that structural reform is necessary in order to avoid annual Special Educational Needs (SEN) placement stress for children and families.
Mr McMurray said: “Since taking up my role as an MLA the issue of SEN provision within our education system has been raised with both myself and my constituency office.
“It is a matter that needs to be addressed in order to ensure the educational needs of all children are fully met.
“On Tuesday (16th July), I attended a briefing by the EA and it was acknowledged that the Newry Mourne and Down area was a ‘Key Pressure Area’ for children still awaiting to have their school placement identified and confirmed.
“For children not to have confirmation of where they are to be attending school is unacceptable.
“Many parents and teachers are concerned about how the educational needs of many children are being addressed.
“Our special schools have been over-capacity and under-resourced for far too long and this is leaving children without the quality education and support they need to achieve their full potential.
“I welcome the support services the EA is offering to families via the SEN Helpdesk, SEN Link Officers, and Family Support Officers, but unfortunately these services are under-resourced and a short-term solution.
“I call on the Education Minister to prioritise reform and investment in this important sector, as we are failing these young people and depriving them of the education every child should have by right.”
Cllr Jill Truesdale added: “Wider structural changes within the education system are needed to fully meet the educational needs of all our children.
“This should start with the training of teachers to ensure that every teacher is an SEN teacher.
“It’s good that the EA is in discussions with the Economy and Education Departments.
“However, to avoid the annual crisis for pupils and parents and ensure that all children’s educational needs are fully met, progress is necessary.
“Cross-departmental cooperation between the Departments of Health and Education should also be developed to better anticipate children’s needs and help their future learning.”
