Sinn Féin MLA Danny Baker has said that school placements for children with special educational needs must be suitable and appropriate to their needs.
The party’s spokesperson for Children and Young People said:
”It is very concerning that many children with special educational needs are still without a school place for September.
”It is vital that these children receive a school place and that school places offered to them are suitable and appropriate to their needs.
”The current situation is adding to the stress and anxiety of vulnerable children and their families. Parents are still struggling to get information from the Education Authority regarding placements.
”I am reiterating my call on the Education Minister to explore a ‘SEN first’ strategy which will mean children with SEN form part of a school’s planned enrolment numbers and would ensure they are prioritised.
”By doing this we could provide assurance for parents, clarity for schools and would ensure the proper support required for children with SEN is in place from the beginning of term.”
