Nodi Guide: New Comprehensive Guide to Additional Learning Needs Law in Wales Launched by Civitas Chambers

The Education Team at Civitas Chambers are proud to announce the launch of the first-ever comprehensive guide to Additional Learning Needs (ALN) law in Wales.

Where?

The Cornerstone, Cardiff, CF10 2GA

When?

5 November 2024,
17:30 – 20:00

What is the Nodi Guide?

The Nodi Guide is a freely accessible guide to ALN law in Wales, offering essential legal guidance for parents, educators, local authorities, and legal professionals navigating the evolving legal landscape of ALN in Wales.

The Nodi Guide focuses on Wales' new ALN framework, introduced by the Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018.

An online tool, the Guide consolidates legislation, guidance, and case law in one place and is designed to be updated regularly as new cases and developments emerge. The Welsh ALN system is notably different from the English framework, and this guide is intended to help all stakeholders navigate these distinctions effectively.

Why is the Nodi Guide needed?

ALN law can be complex and impenetrable, particularly in light of recent changes to the law in Wales. It is imperative that parents and young people understand their rights.

The launch of the Nodi Guide represents a significant step forward in promoting understanding of devolved matters in Wales and arming parents and young people with the knowledge they need when it comes to ALN issues.

Who are the authors?

The Nodi Guide has been written collaboratively by Civitas Chambers’ experienced education team, Cathrine Grubb, Owain Rhys James, Alys Williams, Isabelle Knight, and Crash Wigley.

Special thanks go to David Wolfe KC and Leon Glenister for their editorial input into the Nodi Guide. David and Leon are the authors of the Noddy Guide on Special Educational Needs, which has been a cornerstone of guidance on English SEND law for over a decade and is widely used by practitioners and Tribunal users alike.

What is covered in the Nodi Guide?

The Nodi Guide sets out the legal framework in Wales relating to the education of those with ALN.

It has been written so that it is accessible to all those involved in ALN from the tribunal to parents, using plain language, and in a question-and-answer format where possible.

The chapters of the Nodi Guide provide information on topics such as assessments for IDPs, challenging the contents of an IDP, additional learning provision (‘ADP’), Tribunal procedure and much more.

The new legal framework for ALN provision is still in its infancy and therefore the law may in due course be interpreted differently by the Education Tribunal Wales. The Nodi Guide will be regularly updated as a free public resource.

Should I come to the Nodi Guide Launch Event?

Yes!

The Nodi Guide Launch Event on 5 November 2024 is being held at The Cornerstone, Cardiff.

The event is open to all those with an interest in ALN law in Wales, including parents, lawyers, and teachers.

 The launch event will be attended by leading experts in the field of ALN law in Wales including the president of the Education Tribunal Wales, SNAP Cymru, Local Authorities, Children’ Legal Centre Wales.

A panel of experts will provide a valuable insight into the implementation of the new Act. There will also be an opportunity to exchange ideas and network with other attendees.

The Nodi Guide is published by Support Send Kids, a charity established during the COVID-19 pandemic to assist parents in understanding and accessing legal support for children with special needs.

"The Nodi Guide will be a game-changer for families across Wales, ensuring that they have clear, comprehensive access to their rights under the new ALN framework," said a representative from the charity.