Navigating the education system can be challenging for any parent, but it becomes even more complex when your child has special educational needs (SEN). In the UK, every child has the right to an education that meets their individual needs — and there’s a structured system in place to ensure they receive the right support. This guide breaks down what SEN means, how support is provided in schools, and what parents should know to advocate effectively for their child.
1. What Are Special Educational Needs (SEN)?
A child is considered to have SEN if they have a learning difficulty or disability that makes it harder for them to learn compared to others of the same age. This can include challenges with:
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Reading, writing, or maths (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia)
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Communication and interaction (e.g., speech or language difficulties, autism spectrum disorder)
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Emotional and behavioural regulation (e.g., ADHD, anxiety)
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Sensory or physical needs (e.g., hearing or vision impairment, mobility issues)
SEN can range from mild to severe, and support is tailored to each child’s unique circumstances.
2. The Legal Framework for SEN in the UK
The main legislation governing SEN support is the Children and Families Act 2014, along with the SEND Code of Practice (2015). This framework applies to England and ensures that schools, local authorities, and parents work together to meet a child’s needs.
Under this law, schools must:
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Identify children with SEN as early as possible.
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Provide appropriate support through a graduated approach.
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Involve parents in every stage of planning and review.
In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, similar frameworks exist but with some regional differences in terminology and process.
3. The Graduated Approach: Four Stages of Support
Schools in England use a graduated approach to SEN support, often described as a cycle of “Assess, Plan, Do, Review.”
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Assess: Teachers and the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) identify your child’s specific needs.
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Plan: A support plan is created, outlining what interventions or adjustments will be made.
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Do: The plan is put into action by teachers and support staff.
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Review: The plan is reviewed regularly to evaluate progress and make changes if necessary.
If the school cannot meet your child’s needs through their existing resources, they may need an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan.
4. What Is an EHC Plan (Education, Health and Care Plan)?
An EHC Plan (previously called a “statement of SEN”) is a legal document for children whose needs are more complex or require specialist provision. It outlines:
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Your child’s educational, health, and social needs.
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The specific support they will receive.
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The outcomes expected.
Parents (or the school) can request an EHC needs assessment from the local authority. If approved, the local authority must issue the EHC Plan within 20 weeks.
This plan ensures that your child receives the right level of support and that all agencies (education, health, and social care) work together to achieve the best outcomes.
5. SEN Support Within Schools
Even without an EHC Plan, schools are expected to make “reasonable adjustments” to help children with SEN thrive. This can include:
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Differentiated teaching: Tailoring lessons to match individual learning styles.
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Additional adult support: Teaching assistants or one-to-one help.
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Specialist interventions: Speech therapy, occupational therapy, or counselling.
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Assistive technology: Tools like reading software or modified keyboards.
Every school has a SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) responsible for overseeing SEN provision and ensuring teachers understand how to support students effectively.
6. Working in Partnership with the School
Parental involvement is key to successful SEN support. Parents have the right to:
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Be involved in decisions about their child’s education.
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Access school SEN policies and information.
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Request meetings to review progress.
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Appeal decisions (e.g., if an EHC assessment request is denied).
It’s a good idea to maintain open communication with your child’s teachers and SENCO. Keeping a record of meetings, reports, and correspondence can also be helpful when tracking progress or resolving issues.
7. Support Beyond the Classroom
SEN support doesn’t stop at academics. Children with SEN may also need help with emotional wellbeing, social interaction, and transition between school stages. Many local councils offer Local Offer websites — online directories detailing available services, support groups, and community resources for families.
Parents can also access support from:
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SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Service) – offers free, confidential advice.
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Parent Carer Forums – provide opportunities to connect with other parents and share experiences.
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Charities such as the National Autistic Society, Dyslexia Action, and Scope, which offer guidance and advocacy.
8. Preparing for Transitions
Major transitions — such as moving from primary to secondary school, or from school to college — can be particularly challenging for SEN students. Planning early is crucial. Schools should:
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Share detailed transition plans with new teachers or schools.
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Offer visits or orientation sessions.
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Gradually introduce changes to routine.
Parents can support by discussing the transition openly with their child, visiting the new setting together, and maintaining close contact with the SENCO.
9. Common Challenges and How to Address Them
Despite a strong legal framework, some parents face challenges such as:
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Delays in assessment or diagnosis.
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Disagreements with schools or local authorities.
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Limited access to specialist support.
In such cases, parents can seek mediation or appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Special Educational Needs and Disability). Advocacy services can also help represent families during disputes.
Final Thoughts
SEN support in the UK is designed to ensure every child receives an education that helps them reach their potential. As a parent, understanding your rights and the available resources empowers you to play an active role in your child’s learning journey.
Whether your child needs short-term support or long-term assistance, collaboration between schools, families, and professionals can make a lasting difference. With the right strategies and understanding, children with SEN can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.