The Additional Support for Learning Act (ASL Act) is legislation in Scotland that provides a framework for supporting children and young people with additional support needs (ASN) in their education. Enacted in 2004 and amended subsequently, the ASL Act aims to ensure that all learners, regardless of their additional needs, receive appropriate support to access education and achieve their full potential.

What is Meant by ‘Additional Support for Learning’?

‘Additional support for learning’ refers to the provision of extra assistance or accommodations for children and young people who face barriers to learning due to factors such as learning disabilities, physical disabilities, sensory impairments, communication disorders, or social and emotional difficulties. This support is intended to help them overcome these challenges and participate fully in their education.

Sections in the Additional Support for Learning Act

The ASL Act is structured into several key sections that outline various aspects of support and provisions:

• Placing Requests: Procedures for parents to request a specific school placement for their child.
• Additional Support Needs: Definitions and assessments of additional support needs.
• Pre-school Children: Provision of support for children before they reach school age.
• Advocacy Services: Services providing support and advocacy for parents and children.
• Mediation Services: Services to resolve disputes or disagreements between parents and educational authorities.
• Dispute Resolution: Procedures for resolving disputes related to additional support needs.
• Publication of Information: Requirements for education authorities to publish information about additional support needs and available services.
• Additional Support Needs Tribunals for Scotland: Tribunal procedures for cases involving disputes over additional support needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Additional Support for Learning Act (ASL Act)?

The ASL Act is legislation in Scotland aimed at providing support and accommodations for children and young people with additional support needs in education.

Who qualifies for additional support for learning?

Children and young people facing barriers to learning due to various factors such as disabilities, impairments, or social and emotional difficulties may qualify for additional support.

What are the key sections of the Additional Support for Learning Act?

The key sections include placing requests, definitions of additional support needs, provisions for pre-school children, advocacy and mediation services, dispute resolution procedures, and requirements for publication of information.

How does the Additional Support for Learning Act support inclusive education?

It supports inclusive education by ensuring that children with additional support needs receive appropriate support and accommodations to participate fully in their educational experience.

Where can I find more information about the Additional Support for Learning Act?

You can find more information from educational authorities, official government websites, or specialized organizations that support children with additional needs.