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SEND Guidance

Every child is unique, with their own strengths, personality and way of learning. Sometimes, a child may need extra support, and that’s okay. This resource will offer guidance and signpost to further support.

What are Special Educational Needs (SEN)?

This picture shows a laughing child in a wheelchair underneath a colourful parasol.

Some children and young people need a little more support than others to help them learn, grow and feel confident.

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is the term used when a child needs extra help with learning compared to others their age. This could be because of physical, emotional, communication or mental health needs.

A child does not need a diagnosis to receive support.

Your child might need extra help with:

  • Reading, writing or numbers
  • Physical skills – such as holding a pen, sitting comfortably or moving around
  • Communication – including using sign language, symbols or needing extra time to understand information
  • Speech and language – talking and listening
  • Making friends and social skills
  • Emotions, behaviour or mental health

Every child’s needs are different, and support should be shaped around them

Understanding SEN and SEND

You might hear different terms used:

  • SEN (Special Educational Needs) – children who need extra support with learning
  • SEND – includes both special educational needs and disabilities

Support is available from early years through to further education.

By law (Children and Families Act 2014), a child has special educational needs if they need extra provision to help them learn.

Different terms across the UK:

The language used can vary depending on where you live:

  • England: SEND
  • Wales: Additional Learning Needs (ALN)
  • Scotland: Additional Support Needs (ASN)
  • Northern Ireland: SEN

Although the names differ, the goal is the same — making sure children get the support they need to thrive.

Getting support for your child

If you’re worried about your child’s learning or development, trust your instincts. You know your child best.

You can start by talking to:

  • Your child’s nursery, school or college
  • A health visitor or GP
  • Other professionals involved in your child’s care

It can help to:

  • Write down your concerns
  • Keep copies of letters, reports and emails
  • Note when you first raised concerns

Remember, asking for help is a positive first step.

What support might look like

Support will look different for every child, but may include:

  • Extra help in the classroom, sometimes one-to-one
  • Small group learning
  • Speech and language therapy
  • Support with communication, including signs or symbols
  • Visual timetables and structured routines
  • Adapted learning materials (such as large print)
  • Behaviour or emotional support plans
  • Specialist equipment (for example, writing aids or assistive technology)
  • Regular communication between school and home

Some children may need a more structured plan called an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

You are not alone

Finding the right support can sometimes feel overwhelming, but there are organisations and communities ready to help you every step of the way. To find out more see our useful links and resources below.

Government resources

Support and advice:

Education advice and rights: