Enhanced Support Model - Public Consultation

The objective of the reform package is to improve outcomes for children and young people. This can be achieved by changing current rigid approaches that often do not work for children. Schools will have more flexibility on how to best provide support.

The Special Educational Needs Reform Agenda, published by the Department of Education in February 2025, highlighted the need to reform the way in which SEN provision is delivered in Northern Ireland.

The Enhanced Support Model introduces a needs‑based, school‑led, multidisciplinary model that shifts decision making and support closer to the child. It will replace the rigid, one‑size‑fits‑all approach with tailored interventions focused on functional needs and evidence‑based actions.

Please check back and keep an eye on our social media for details of upcoming engagement events. 

References to Special Educational Needs or SEN include children with disabilities.

Consultation response has now closed. 

The consultation events have now completed but there is still time to submit a response.