BIG changes in the way children with Additional Learning Needs are educated in Hay-on-Wye are being planned from September.

Currently youngsters with ALN go to one of Powys’ specialist centres – the closest to Hay-on-Wye being in Brecon.

However a proposal currently under consideration would see 3-11-year-olds stay within their local school, with primary teachers supported by specialists.

The hope, says Powys County Council’s website, is that the children will feel a greater sense of inclusion and be given them more equal access to support.

The changes would mean the closure of four pre-school assessment centres and 18 specialist support units in schools across the county.

However Hay-on-Wye County Primary school head, Fiona Howard, said that as yet she is unaware of any pupils who, under the new measures, would come to her school who do not already do so.

However the changes may still put the school in a difficult position, having included a specialist centre in the plans for its new building.

With this policy still in the proposal stage, Mrs Howard added there are no plans to change the new school’s design.

In a letter sent out to parents, Powys council said it will continue to pay for transport for students who currently attend a centre that is not at their closest school until September 2015, or September 2015 for current year four pupils.

Any parents wanting more information on the proposed changes can contact the school on 01497 820339.