Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:44 pm on 21 June 2022.
Diolch, Llywydd. Amendment 6 adds reference to individuals who have additional learning needs into section 4 of the Bill, which provides for the strategic duty in respect of encouraging participation in tertiary education. Section 4 requires the commission to
'encourage individuals who are ordinarily resident in Wales to participate in tertiary education'.
This amendment alters this section to include express reference to
'individuals who have additional learning needs'.
While the duty, as introduced, captures all individuals, including those who have additional learning needs, as I indicated at Stage 2, I am bringing forward this amendment to include express reference on the face of the Bill to put beyond any doubt that those who have additional learning needs are within the scope of the strategic duty. I would like to thank Laura Anne Jones in particular for the constructive approach she has taken to discussions in relation to this amendment, which takes into account the discussions we had during the Stage 2 proceedings in committee. I urge Members to support this important amendment.