The Education Authority in Northern Ireland will launch a public consultation on March 24 on changes to classroom support for pupils with special educational needs.

The reforms seek to improve support quality for children and young people. A main element grants schools greater freedom to create options beyond one-to-one classroom assistant models.

Many schools already use classroom assistants in multi-skilled roles that go past basic support. The changes aim to formalise this practice.

The reform direction was outlined by the Minister in the Assembly in early 2025.

Tomas Adell, EA's Chief Transformation Officer, stated the current system fails to best meet children's needs and faces growing pressure. He said the plans provide schools flexibility to match support to each child's requirements.

Adell added the enhanced model optimises the existing classroom assistant workforce and values their skills and experience. He urged all classroom assistants to join the consultation, with ongoing talks planned alongside trade union representatives.