Learning

What we have heard

• Teachers have a pivotal role in securing positive experiences for people with learning disabilities.

• Many teachers don’t have the skills and resources they need to support pupils with learning disabilities.

• Testing and attainment structures do not reflect the potential of children with learning disabilities and how they can succeed.

• Transition periods are particularly challenging for people with learning disabilities.

• There are a lack of appropriate choices for people with learning disabilities at school and college.

What we will do next

• Support the early years development of children with learning disabilities, including ensuring the needs of young children with learning disabilities are reflected in the implementation of The Scottish Government’s Play Strategy.

• Work with local government to improve the consistency of additional support for learning across Scotland, through improved guidance, building further capacity to deliver effective additional support and improving career pathways and professional development (including new free training resources for schools on inclusive practices.)

• Work in partnership with Education Scotland, the Association of Directors of Education, local authorities, and other leaders on awareness raising to stimulate cultural change within our schools to improve the experiences of pupils with learning disabilities.

• Work with students, colleges, Colleges Scotland, College Development Network and the Scottish Funding Council to identify examples of best practice within the further education sector, with a particular focus on activity that supports progression to employment and promote the adoption of these across Scotland.

• Help to promote the Independent Living Fund (ILF) Scotland's Transition Fund, to ensure that young people with a learning disability are aware of and encouraged to access support to enhance their independent living, including access to further education and employment.