PARENTS and carers of children with special needs in a North-East town have told educational officials exactly what their youngsters want.

Residents were asked by Stockton Borough Council what they thought of the education their children received and how it could be improved, and more than 300 parents responded to the questionnaire.

Alison Stephenson, assistant director of education, said she was delighted with the response.

"We are committed to helping all children realise their full potential. We also recognise that parents and carers play a crucial role in their children's education, she said.

"Not only do we want parents and carers to play an active part in their children's education, we are also seeking to involve parents in decision-making processes and parent representation on working parties and steering committees is now commonplace."

Initial analysis of the survey shows that nine out of ten parents are satisfied or very satisfied with the assessment process for special educational needs.