Pupil Zone
What does it mean if I have ALN?
Having an additional learning need just means that you may need something different or something extra to help you learn.
I find reading and spelling difficult. Does it mean I have additional learning needs?
Everybody learns at their own pace. Just because your reading and/or spelling is not as good as some of your friends, or if you find it difficult, it doesn’t always mean that you have ALN.
If you find something hard, it is important that you talk to your teacher and your parents/carers about it.
There are some things in school that could be arranged to help you, for example, going for sessions to help with reading.
If your teachers are worried about your progress, they will keep an eye on your work and speak to you and the school’s additional learning needs co-ordinator who will then contact home.
Who can I talk to if I am finding the work hard?
It is always good to talk to the teacher first. They may be able to do something to help you in class, for example: give you a different worksheet, explain the work in a different way or even find another way for you to record your answers.
If you are still finding it hard, speak to your parents/carers. They might encourage you to speak to the additional learning needs co-ordinator yourself or may contact them for you.
Will my friends find out I have ALN?
It is up to you who you tell about your ALN. Sometimes it is helpful to have a friend to talk to. Other people like to keep it to themselves. Your teachers will be aware of your ALN so they can help you. If you go out for additional help with reading, some people might notice but lots of pupils leave lessons for lots of reasons.
How will ALN change for me as there is a new law?
The school has been slowly making changes ready for this new law so you might not really notice anything.
· The big change is that if you have a Statement, it will become an IDP.
· You will also be asked for your views using person-centred planning tools. You can also disagree with your ALN/ALP.
· Any extra help you receive will be called an ALP
· It will all be done using language that you can understand
It would be good if you watch the video on the ALN reform tab.
Here is a simple guide to explain the changes.
I have a One Page Profile. Does that mean I have ALN?
No. Everybody in school, even all the staff working in the school, will have a one page profile. This allows you the opportunity to share information with your teachers about how you work and ways you would like to be supported. It is useful as it helps teachers plan the learning activities and assessments. This is part of putting you at the centre of your learning.
If you did have ALN, your one page profile would be part of your IDP.