This allows for the introduction of a new process for a more flexible and agile approach that will facilitate the establishment, closure or change of Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools without the need for the publication of a statutory Development Proposal, but which would retain the robust detail required for this process.
To build on the success of the first pilot and to ‘bridge the gap’ until the enactment of the SEND Act (2016), Code of Practice and the Annual Plan of Arrangements, the Minister approved a second pilot on 21 January 2022. This pilot will help ensure that pupils with Special Educational Needs continue to have the places they require in the right place and at the right time.
The Education Authority wishes to engage with the governors, staff, pupils and parents of the identified pilot schools and to consult on the formal approval of temporary resource provisions.
This rationale document should be read in conjunction with the individual school proposals as it provides a background to Specialist Provision in Primary and Post-Primary Schools.