Falkirk Council set to consider plans to improve accessibility across local schools

The new action plan is targeted towards strengthening access to learning throughout schools in the district and for children and young people with disabilities and additional support needs.

The local authority has outlined how they plan to improve accessibility across schools in the Education Accessibility Strategy and Action Plan 2026-2029

Members will be asked to approve the strategy and action plan on Thursday, November 5.

Access to learning, school buildings, and communication are the three key areas the plan will focus on. It aims to make sure pupils can take part in lessons and school activities, locate physical barriers and consider improvements to facilities, and improve how information is shared between pupils and families.

Pupils, parents, education staff, and partner organisations helped shape the strategy through their responses to a consultation which was carried out during March and April.

Responses were generally supportive of the action plan, but areas that needed further work were highlighted during the consultation. These included better access to specialist equipment and support, upgrades to sensory-friendly areas, more consistent staff training, and improved communication with families.

The strategy will work with the council’s Learning Estate Review, which is responsible for considering the condition, suitability, and future needs of school buildings. Any investments needed would be considered through the council’s existing planning and budget processes, and accessibility improvements will be taken into account as part of planned maintenance, refurbishment, and future school projects.

Jon Reid, director of education, said: “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.”