Moving Forward! Additional support for learning

'What is our vision of the future?

We wish to see an education system that is inclusive, welcomes diversity and provides an equal opportunity for all children to develop their personality, skills and abilities to their fullest potential.

1. This vision has been agreed in discussion with members of the National Special Educational Needs Advisory Forum and underpins our strategy for meeting the needs of children who require additional support for learning.

Principles

2. Supporting this vision are certain key principles:

• education must be child-centred, yet take a holistic approach to the needs of the child and his or her family;
• schools should demonstrate a commitment to inclusiveness;
• the rights and views of children, young people and their parents should be respected and listened to;
• national and local policies for improving standards should include all children; and
• allocation of resources by schools, local authorities and their partners should demonstrate a commitment to inclusiveness and delivery of integrated services; and take account of the diversity of local pupil populations.'

Excerpt from the Introduction