Closing Date: 7th May 2026 

Scottish Government has published a consultation looking for input on a new version of the supporting children’s learning code of practice.  

The Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004 (the 2004 Act) provides the legal framework for identifying and addressing the additional support needs of children and young people who face a barrier, or barriers, to learning. The 2004 Act aims to ensure that all children and young people are provided with the necessary support to help them work towards achieving their full potential. It also promotes collaborative working among all those supporting children and young people and sets out the rights of children, young people and parents within the system. 

The Code of Practice, which provides statutory guidance on this legal framework, was most recently revised in 2017 following amendments made to the 2004 Act extending rights to children aged 12 and over. Since then, Scottish Ministers have committed to reviewing the guidance to ensure it remains accessible to users and fit for purpose in supporting the wide audience engaging with the legislation on a day-to-day basis. 

Find out more about the consultation  

Read the consultation paper