They were speaking at the ‘Equity in Education - Early Years through Post 19’ event at Parliament Buildings today (23 June), hosted by local campaign groups SEN Reform NI and Caleb’s Cause.

Mr Mathison, who sponsored the event, said: “Today’s event has demonstrated just how broken our current SEN support system is. Survey results presented today demonstrate that 68% of parents or carers of children with special educational needs (SEN) rated communication with the EA as ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’ and only 47% received their child’s statement within the legal time frame.

“These figures are extremely concerning. SEN Reform NI and Caleb’s Cause have done fantastic work highlighting these issues, but ultimately, they shouldn’t have to. Our education system should ensure that all children have the chance to thrive, yet this is clearly not the case for some of our most vulnerable leaners.

“Today, we also had an urgent meeting with the EA regarding SEN school places for the upcoming year. With just one week left of the school year, over 150 children are still without placements for the start of the new academic term. This repeated cycle of chaos and uncertainty seems to have become the norm, understandably causing huge concern with parents and pupils in key transition years.”

Ms Guy added: “Once again, we are hearing from parents how they and their children have been failed by our education system.

“When he first took up office, the Education Minister made it clear that SEN was a top priority, yet over a year on, it appears that nothing has actually changed. These failings cannot continue. We need a radical overhaul of our system and to move towards an inclusive education system which ensures all learners of all abilities and from all backgrounds can reach their full potential.

“We need all relevant Executive Ministers around the table prioritising truly cross-departmental legislation to deliver appropriate post-19 pathways for our leaners with SEN.”