The new ALN system supports learners with additional learning needs from zero to 25 years of age. In next year's draft budget, I have protected our significant investment in post-16 ALN provision, with £19.8 million to further education colleges  and £13.8 million for post-16 specialist placements

The Welsh Government has a zero-tolerance approach to any form of bullying in the Welsh education system, and we expect the same from schools and education services. We provide a range of resources and support to schools and practitioners to tackle all forms of bullying and harassment.

We've reshaped spending plans so we can invest more in the NHS and protect local government funding for schools, social care and other services we rely on every day. We've prioritised protecting core front-line public services, including schools, through protecting the indicative rise of 3.1 per cent for the local government settlement.

Our school essentials grant has made a significant difference to many lower income families across Wales, helping to reduce the worry surrounding the purchase of school uniform and equipment. Funding of £1.76 million has been allocated to families living in Bridgend County Borough Council and Rhondda Cynon Taf in 2023-24.