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Assessing our children's educational needs: The Way Forward?

Foreword

Our current assessment and recording arrangements for children with special educational needs date from 1980. They include a detailed multi-disciplinary assessment process required by law for children whose needs are greatest. This Record of Needs legislation was welcomed in its day as a significant step forward. Its aim was to ensure that children with the most significant needs had these needs recognised and met.

After 20 years, it is clear that the time is right for a review. I am aware that with the increased emphasis on inclusive education, there are those who feel that it is now appropriate to move on from a recording process designed for a few children to a framework for all children. In addition, I know that many parents have concerns over the effectiveness of the current assessment process. They want to see it improved and strengthened.

The Scottish Parliament's Education, Culture and Sport Committee, during its inquiry into special educational needs, heard a range of concerns about the current assessment process. This consultation paper provides an opportunity to examine these concerns, to extend the debate and to look at how best to provide a high quality education to meet all our children's individual needs.

I welcome your views and comments which will help our review of the assessment and recording system in Scotland.

Nicol Stephen
Deputy Minister for Education, Europe and External Affairs

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