School support in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: what is different?

The short answer

Do not ask every UK school for SEN Support or an EHCP. In Scotland, the broad framework is additional support for learning; needs may arise for any reason and most support is arranged without a coordinated support plan, which has a specific test. Enquire provides national family information. In Wales, the system uses additional learning needs, additional learning provision and a statutory individual development plan for a learner identified as having ALN. Ask the class teacher or ALNCO; local authorities provide information, disagreement resolution and routes to reconsideration and appeal. In Northern Ireland, schools currently follow the existing SEN Code of Practice and staged approach, with the Education Authority responsible for statutory assessment and statements. The proposed replacement Regulations were delayed and are not the operating framework in August 2026. Ask the teacher, current SEN coordinator or headteacher which stage and plan apply. Disability-adjustment law also differs: the Equality Act applies in Scotland and Wales, while Northern Ireland uses SENDO.

• Use additional support for learning in Scotland, ALN and IDP in Wales, and current SEN Code terminology in Northern Ireland.
• Do not assume every child with additional needs requires the highest-level statutory plan.
• Ask the school to name the current plan, responsible person and review route.
• Wales's IDP is statutory for a learner identified as having ALN.
• Northern Ireland's proposed new Regulations are delayed, so draft roles and plans are not yet universal current practice.
• Use Enquire, local Welsh ALN information services and the Education Authority's SEN service for independent navigation.