Minister outlines significant reforms to boost post-school opportunities for SEN learners across NI
- Love Ballymena
- Jun 16
- 2 min read
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has today unveiled a comprehensive package of proposals designed to transform support for school leavers with special educational needs (SEN), aiming to create more inclusive and accessible pathways into further education, apprenticeships and employment.
In a statement to the Northern Ireland Assembly, Dr Archibald set out the Department for the Economy’s intention to enhance provision, increase learner support, and reform career guidance for young people with SEN, marking a significant step forward in the region’s commitment to educational equality.
“Supporting young people with SEN is a key priority in the Programme for Government, reflecting our commitment to ensuring that every young person in our society is given the opportunity to thrive,” said the Minister.
Key proposals to enhance SEN support
Among the proposed initiatives is the establishment of a dedicated Transition Support Service to guide learners from school into the next stages of education or training. This service aims to provide a tailored, person-centred approach to post-school planning, ensuring a smoother and more supported transition.
In tandem, the Minister announced plans for increased investment in further education (FE) colleges, aimed at expanding and improving accessible provision. This includes legislative action to underpin a new assessment and support model for FE students with additional learning support needs.
Recognising the importance of diverse pathways, the proposals also include measures to improve access to apprenticeships and higher education for individuals with learning disabilities.
These reforms seek to foster greater inclusion and raise aspirations among young people who may currently face barriers to participation in traditional routes.
Inclusive careers advice and digital innovation
The Minister also highlighted the need to modernise careers advice services, especially for those with neurodiverse conditions.
Planned improvements to the Department’s Careers Service include the development of innovative software solutions for autistic individuals, alongside the launch of a new careers portal designed to offer inclusive, equitable access to guidance tools and information for users of all backgrounds and abilities.
Dr Archibald affirmed:
“Following a review of current provision and legislative protections, I am bringing forward proposals which will enhance opportunities for school leavers with SEN to access the learning, support and guidance they need and deserve.”
A cross-government approach to SEN reform
Acknowledging the scale and ambition of the proposals, the Minister called for joint working across the Executive to implement the changes effectively.
“These proposals aim to break down the barriers that too often hinder young people with disabilities from reaching their full potential after school. These plans will require significant collaboration and I will work with colleagues across the Executive to secure the resources and changes needed to support young people with SEN.”
The full Ministerial statement and a detailed summary of the departmental review of post-school provision and legislative protections for SEN learners are available at the link below.
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