What is IDP (Individual Development Plan)?
Also known as: individual development plan
An IDP (individual development plan) is the statutory plan in Wales that describes a learner's additional learning needs and the additional learning provision they should receive. It replaced statements of SEN, individual education plans and learning and skills plans under the ALN Code for Wales 2021.
Every learner in Wales who is found to have additional learning needs (ALN) is entitled to an individual development plan. The IDP describes the learner’s needs, the additional learning provision that will meet them, and who is responsible for delivering it. It is written with the learner and their family and is meant to be person-centred.
Most IDPs are prepared and maintained by the learner’s school. For some learners, such as those with more complex needs or those who are looked after, the local authority maintains the plan instead. IDPs are reviewed regularly, and families can challenge decisions they disagree with.
England and Wales
IDPs exist in Wales only. In England, the closest equivalent is the education, health and care plan (EHCP), which is issued by the local authority. Pupils in England receiving SEN support may also have school-level support plans, but these are not statutory in the way an EHCP or IDP is.
Why it matters for your setting
- If you teach a learner with an IDP, the plan tells you what provision they should receive while they are with you.
- You may be asked to contribute to reviews, so good notes on progress and attendance are valuable.
- Knowing which learners have plans helps you prioritise support and keep in touch with their ALNCo.
Related terms
Last reviewed 24 September 2026. General information, not legal advice. Always check the current official guidance. Back to the glossary
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