In light of recent findings from Aberdeenshire Council, what its position is on reports that pupils have been incorrectly recorded as havin…

The national increase in the number of pupils recorded as having an additional support need is partly driven by increased awareness and identification, but also by a change in how ASN statistics were gathered in 2010, to ensure that these record any type of additional support provided to pupils.We are undertaking a National ASN Data Improvement Programme focusing on improving the consistency of how additional support needs are identified and recorded across Scotland. Part of this work includes a full review of the current categories of need and creating national guidance.We are working in collaboration with local authorities to ensure this work helps schools and local authorities understand the needs of children and young people more clearly, support staff to record identified needs more consistently, and to support more effective overall planning to meet children’s needs.