Identifying ALN

A single system from age 0–25

Wales replaced the old SEN system entirely with ALN — one unified framework from early years through to age 25, intended to remove the cliff-edges that used to exist at school transitions.

Your rights: Every school must have a named ALNCo, and every child with ALN is legally entitled to an Individual Development Plan (2018 Act, in force from 2021).

Common pitfall: Wales is still mid-transition in some areas — ask which system applies to your child's year group.

Your voice: The ALN system was deliberately designed around person-centred practice — your view of what 'good' looks like for your child is meant to shape the plan from the very first conversation.

• Ask the setting's ALNCo for their assessment

• For under-5s, contact the local authority directly — health visitors often trigger early identification

• Ask explicitly whether your child needs an IDP, and who will hold responsibility for maintaining it