Proposed Framework of Future Provision for Children in the Early Years with Special Educational Needs

Employers For Childcare has responded to the Education Authority’s proposed Framework of Future Provision for Children in the Early Years with Special Educational Needs (SEN). We welcome the publication of the framework and, in our response, provide a number of suggestions to further enhance it.

Using evidence based on our work with families whose children have special educational needs, we highlight the role that childcare plays in helping to support them.

We advocate a stronger emphasis on early intervention recognising that access to childcare can be key in supporting young people to develop socially and emotionally.

We believe that childcare and education are inextricably linked.  The proposed framework has the opportunity to integrate both childcare and education to meet the broader needs of families and children with special educational needs. This would require a more collaborative approach aligning with other key strategies in Northern Ireland, particularly the forthcoming Childcare Strategy.

For further information on the consultation see: http://www.eani.org.uk/about-us/consultations/future-provision-for-children-in-the-early-years-with-sen/