What is SEN?

SEN is when a child has a learning difficulty which calls for special educational provision to be made for them.

For example: Behavioural or social disability
                      Reading and writing
                      Understanding things 
                      Concentration
                      Physical needs or impairment

Children have a learning difficulty if they:
(a) Have a significantly greater difficulty in learning than the majority of children the same age
(b) Have a disability which prevents or hinders them from making use of educational facilities of a kind, generally provided for children of the same school age within the area of the local education authority.

Special educational provision means:
(a) For children of two or over, educational provision which is additional to, or otherwise different from, the educational provision made generally for children of their age in schools maintained by the LEA, other than special schools, in the area
(b) For children under two, educational provision of any kind.

Fundamental Principles to consider with SEN

A child with special educational needs should have their needs met. The special educational needs of children will normally be met in mainstream schools or settings. The views of the child should be  taken into account. Parents have a vital role to play in supporting their child’s education. Children with special educational needs should be offered full access to a broad, balanced and relevant education, including an appropriate curriculum for the foundation stage and the National Curriculum.

With regards to SEN a term known as Inclusion is put in place. Inclusion is the process of identifying, understanding and breaking down barriers to participation and belonging. Here are some words associated with Inclusion:

1. Equality
2. Involvement
3. No discrimination/prejudice/racism
4. Acceptance
5. Conformity
6. Values
7. Human rights
8. Morals
9. Attitudes
10. Freedom
11. Participation