Identifying and supporting SEND

What does SEND mean?

Children may need extra support with their learning at specific points in their life. It does not mean they have a Special Education Need or Disability (SEND).

How to identify SEND

Your child or young person could have SEND if they: 

  • have more difficulty learning than most others of the same age 
  • have a disability that prevents or hinders them from joining mainstream schools or colleges

If your child or young person falls within this definition, they may need special provision.

They may need extra help or support, which allows them to have the same opportunities as others of the same age.  

For some children, extra support may be for a short time only. For others, it is needed for their whole life.