5 Myths About ALN Support in Wales — and What Parents Really Need to Know

🌿 5 Myths About ALN Support in Wales — and What Parents Really Need to Know

💬 Myth 1: “The new ALN system is only for children with severe needs.”

Not true.
The ALN Code for Wales 2021 covers all learners who need extra help to learn — whether that’s due to anxiety, ADHD, sensory needs, literacy difficulties, or health challenges.
If your child needs something different or additional to what others receive, they may qualify for ALN support.

🔗 Read the full ALN Code on the Welsh Government website.

💬 Myth 2: “You can’t get support if your child is home educated.”

You can.
Under the Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018, local authorities still have a duty to identify and meet ALN — even if your child isn’t on a school roll.
Families educating at home should be treated with the same fairness and respect as those in school.

💬 Myth 3: “An IDP is only for children in school.”

Individual Development Plans (IDPs) are for learners, not just pupils.
That means children in school, EOTAS, or home education can all have IDPs if they meet the criteria.
An IDP should be reviewed regularly, reflect real needs, and include everyone’s voice — including the parent’s.

👉 See our guide: A Parent’s Guide to Requesting an IDP Review in Wales (link internally once live).

💬 Myth 4: “Once an IDP is written, that’s it.”

Support should never stand still.
If your child’s needs change, or their current plan isn’t working, you have the right to request a review.
Learn Without Limits provides free printable templates to help you do this clearly and confidently.

📄 Download the template in our app at learnwithoutlimitscic.org.

💬 Myth 5: “Parents have no power in the process.”

You do — and you always will.
The ALN Code places parents and young people at the centre of decision-making.
Your lived knowledge of your child matters. When you use clear written communication and record what’s been agreed, you’re building a secure foundation for your child’s support journey.

🌟 The Truth

ALN isn’t just a system — it’s a promise.
Every child in Wales has the right to learn in a way that fits who they are.
And every parent deserves tools that make navigating that system calmer and clearer.

Start exploring our free resources today at learnwithoutlimitscic.org.

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