SEND (Special educational needs and disabilities)

The term used in England for children and young people who have a learning difficulty or disability that needs special educational provision, as defined in the Children and Families Act 2014.

Stands for

Special educational needs and disabilities

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.

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Related terms

SEN (Special educational needs) All four UK nations (details may differ)

A learning difficulty or disability that calls for special educational provision. SEN is the older and still common short form; England now usually writes SEND.

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.

SENCO (Special educational needs coordinator) England Northern Ireland

The qualified teacher in a school responsible for coordinating provision for pupils with SEN. In England, new SENCOs must gain a national qualification for the role.

EHCP (Education, health and care plan) England

A legal document in England, issued by the local authority, describing a child or young person's special educational, health and social care needs and the support they must receive, for those aged up to 25.

SEN support England

Support for pupils with SEN who do not have an EHCP, provided by the school using its own resources and the graduated approach.

More terms: SEND and special education

SEMH · SEN information report · SEN unit · SEND register · SEND Tribunal · SENDCo

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