The proposed Education Accessibility Strategy and Action Plan 2026-2029 outlines how the Council intends to identify and reduce barriers to learning, enhance accessibility within school buildings, and strengthen communication with pupils and their families. Members will be asked to approve the strategy, which will provide a framework for identifying priorities and planning improvements across Falkirk's schools over the next three years.
The strategy focuses on three key areas: Access to learning, ensuring participation through specialist equipment and digital technology; Access to school buildings, addressing physical barriers in facilities like toilets, changing areas, and classrooms; and Access to communication, improving information sharing with pupils and families in accessible formats.
This approach aims for a more consistent and planned method for accessibility across all schools, moving away from solely responding to individual issues. The strategy has been shaped by a consultation held in March and April 2026, which gathered feedback from parents, pupils, education staff, and partner organisations. Key areas highlighted for improvement included access to specialist equipment, sensory-friendly spaces, staff training, and clearer communication.
The proposed action plan, informed by this feedback, sets out responsibilities, timescales, and monitoring arrangements. The strategy will complement the Council's Learning Estate Review, which assesses the condition and future needs of school buildings. Any investment will be considered through the Council's existing planning and budget processes.
“"Every child and young person should be able to take part in school life and access the learning and support they need. We know there are barriers in some of our schools and the feedback from families has helped us better understand where improvements are needed. This strategy is about taking a more planned and consistent approach so we can identify those barriers, establish priorities and make the best use of the resources available. It is important to be clear that we are asking Executive to approve a framework for action over the next three years, rather than individual projects or investment decisions. Further assessment and planning will be needed to determine what improvements can be delivered and when."
