What are Special Educational Needs ("SEN")?

The term Special Educational Needs ("SEN") has a specific meaning under English law

Every child deserves access to an education that allows them to thrive, but for around 1.8million children in England, the standard educational offer does not meet their individual needs. Special Educational Needs ("SEN") is the term used in England to refer to children who have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn than other children of the same age.

Having SEN can affect a child’s ability to:

• Understand and process information

• Communicate with others

• Regulate emotions and social interactions

• Develop physical and sensory skills

The legal definition of SEN is set out at section 20 of the Children and Families Act 2014 ("CAFA"), and further guidance is provided by the SEND Code of Practice 2015. A child or young person has SEN if they require Special Educational Provision ("SEP"), meaning additional or different support beyond that which is normally provided in mainstream schools.

SEN can manifest in various ways, depending on the child or young person. Some examples include:

• Neurodivergent conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia

• Speech and Language Delay and or Difficulties

• Physical Disabilities

• Sensory Processing Disorder

All mainstream schools and colleges in England have a duty to maintain a register of the children/young people in their care who are identified as having SEN as well as to use their best endeavours to provide them with appropraite support. This might include:

• Differentiated teaching strategies tailored to their needs

• Support from teaching assistants

• Social, emotional, and mental health interventions

• Speech and language therapy/occupational therapy

If a child or young person requires requires more significant support, they may qualify for an Education, Health and Care Plan ("EHC Plan"), which outlines their specific needs and the provision to which they are legally entiled. Schools and parents/carers can request an Education Health and Care Needs Assessment ("EHCNA") from the local authority; which is the first step to obtaining an EHC Plan.

Understanding SEN can feel daunting and even overwhelming, but parents in England have access to a legal framework designed to help their child or young person succeed. Through advocating for your child’s needs and collaborating with schools and professionals you can take steps to can ensure that they receive the necessary adjustments and resources to thrive in their education.

If your child or young person is struggling with education, SEND Advocacy can provide information, advice and support to help ensure they receive the provision to which they are entilted. If you need someone in your corner to help you secure the education they deserve, contact SEND Advocacy today.