Get Pro
Menu

Four broad areas of need

The four categories of need in the SEND Code of Practice: communication and interaction; cognition and learning; social, emotional and mental health; and sensory and/or physical needs.

Used in
England
Topic
SEND and special education

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

Classfern Pro: report writer, Ask Fern, forum and jobs – no ads. What's in Pro Join Classfern Pro

Learn how – Glossary: watch the 1-minute video · print (PDF)

SEND Code of Practice England
The statutory guidance for England, covering children and young people aged 0 to 25 with SEND, that schools, local authorities, health and social care must have regard to.
SEMH (Social, emotional and mental health) England
One of the four areas of need: difficulties such as anxiety, depression, attachment difficulties or behaviours linked to unmet emotional needs.
SLCN (Speech, language and communication needs) All four UK nations (details may differ)
Difficulties with speaking, understanding language or social communication.

More terms: SEND and special education

Assess plan do review · EHC needs assessment · EHCP · Graduated approach · Local offer · Mediation

More terms starting with F · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.