§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) what initiatives he will take to improve provision for pupils in primary and secondary schools who suffer from attention deficit disorder and allied difficulties; and if he will make a statement; [60553]
(2) what is his estimate of the number of pupils in the secondary and primary schools of Wales who suffer from attention deficit disorder; and what advice he has given to local education authorities regarding their obligations to assist such pupils. [60554]
§ Mr. HainInformation on the number of pupils in primary and secondary schools in Wales with attention deficit disorder (ADD) is not held centrally. Responsibility for ensuring that appropriate provision is made for children with special educational needs (SEN) rests with LEAs and schools. They are required to have regard to the guidance contained in the "Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN" in all of their dealings with children with SEN, including those with learning difficulties associated with ADD. The Code sets out practical guidance on identification and assessment and on making appropriate provision to meet specific needs.
We will publish the response to the "BEST for Special Education" Green Paper consultation, setting out our programme of action for SEN policy and practice over the remainder of this Parliament, towards the end of the year.