Discussions being held over expanding SEN provision in schools

Discussions have taken place between the Education Authority (EA) and teaching unions over expanding special education needs (SEN) provision in Northern Ireland schools.

The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) recently called for the engagement to ensure that a “last-minute scramble for school places” is not repeated in 2026.

The EA has consistently said all schools in the region will have to be involved in providing places for SEN children as the demand for provision continues to grow.

Dale Hanna, EA chief operating officer, said: “This engagement has been extremely positive in identifying practical solutions for developing specialist provision within mainstream schools.

“Through this constructive approach, we can help ensure schools receive the support they need to deliver the best possible education for all children, including those with special educational needs who enrich our school communities in countless ways.”

At present, only 26% of mainstream schools in Northern Ireland offer specialist provision.

Earlier this year, it emerged that Education Minister Paul Givan had written to 58 schools requesting their support with new SEN provision, but that only one had responded with an offer to progress work.

EA chief executive Richard Pengelly then wrote to a number of schools again requesting assistance and said some may be formally instructed by the Department of Education to set up specialist provision because of the crisis over places.

Graham Gault, national secretary of NAHT NI, responded by stating the suggestion that some schools in Northern Ireland have been unwilling to accommodate children with special educational needs was “profoundly insulting”.