The reform of the Learning Support Act will enter into force on 1 August 2025.
Currently, learning support is based on a three-tier system of support, consisting of three levels: general, intensified and special support. The reform of the law on learning support will abolish these levels and aim to clarify the support pupils receive.
The reform focuses on prevention and the right of pupils to study in their local school. The aim of the reform is to ensure that all pupils receive the support they need in their learning.
In future, pupils will be able to receive group and pupil-specific support according to their needs.
Group-based support is primarily provided as part of everyday classroom teaching. This includes, for example, general support teaching, language support teaching and teaching by a special needs teacher in the context of other teaching. These forms of support are part of each school day and are not decided separately.
Pupil-specific support includes teaching partly in a small group or entirely in a special classroom, as well as pupil-specific interpretation and assistance services. The organization of pupil-specific support is decided by administrative decision. The carer is involved in the planning of the support. Pupils in special classes are included in this category.
During the next academic year, the future organization of support for pupils with intensive and special needs will be considered on an individual basis. Pupils will always have priority access to group support, but if this is not sufficient, they may be offered individually tailored support.
The new law will change the support for learning in pre-primary, basic and general upper secondary education as of 1 August 2025.