SEND
Learn more about Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
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The meaning of SEND
The meaning of SEND
What is a Special Educational Need?
Under the Equality Act 2010, a Special Educational Need (SEN) is recognised when a student has a learning difference or disability where they may require special educational provisions. SEN may stem from different factors that may cause the pupil to learn differently. This could be related to physical or sensory differences, developmental or cognitive differences.
What is a Disability?
Disability is a complex concept, therefore, there are different models that define it.
The affirmation model of disability defines it as a positive part of someone's identity, emphasising self-acceptance and pride. It moves away from seeing disability as something negative or something to overcome. Instead, it embraces disability as a natural human variation and values the unique perspectives, culture, and experiences that come with it. The affirmation model supports the idea that disabled people can lead fulfilling lives without the need to be fixed, challenging negative stereotypes and promoting social inclusion. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2000-05134-001
The social model of disability defines disability as a result of societal barriers, not the individual's impairment. It sees disability as created by inaccessible environments, discriminatory attitudes, and lack of support, which restrict people’s participation in society. According to this model, the focus is on changing society to remove these barriers—such as improving accessibility, promoting inclusivity, and adjusting attitudes—rather than fixing the individual. It advocates for a shift from viewing disabilities as personal limitations to addressing and removing external obstacles. https://www.disabilitynottinghamshire.org.uk/index.php/about/social-model-vs-medical-model-of-disability/
The medical model of disability defines it as a condition resulting from physical or mental impairments that limit an individual's functional abilities. This model often focuses on diagnosis and medical intervention rather than addressing broader social or environmental factors that may also contribute to a person’s challenges. https://www.disabilitynottinghamshire.org.uk/index.php/about/social-model-vs-medical-model-of-disability/
Each model influences policies, attitudes and approaches towards disability and each has its relevance today.
Finally, the Equality Act 2010 provides the following definition: someone are disabled under the Equality Act 2010 if they have a physical or mental impairment that has a 'substantial' and 'long-term' negative effect on their ability to do normal daily activities.
More about SEND
More about SEND
Autism
Autism
Definition
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that is genetic and lifelong, and it is often described as a neurodivergence. Autistic people can communicate differently and experience the sensory world around them in a unique way. Autism is often described as a spectrum, because each autistic person has their own unique characteristics. However, recent research has described autism as a constellation, to mainly signify that each individual and their traits are ever changing throughout their life.
Autistic people often bring valuable strengths, such as deep focus, creativity, attention to detail, and original perspectives.
Useful Websites
https://www.autism.org.uk/
https://www.autism-alliance.org.uk/
ADHD
ADHD
Definition
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Difference (Disorder), is a genetic and lifelong variation in how individuals process information, focus, and manage energy. It is often described as neurodivergence. People with ADHD have unique ways of thinking, creating, and interacting with the world, which can offer fresh perspectives, strong problem-solving skills, and intense focus on areas of interest.
Useful Websites
https://www.additudemag.com/
Dyslexia
Dyslexia
Definition
Dyslexia is the different way in which some individuals process written and spoken language, especially in areas such as reading, spelling and word decoding. People with dyslexia may experience difficulties with fluency and word recognition, but they often excel in other areas such as problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.
Useful Websites
https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy
Definition
Cerebral palsy is a difference in brain development that can impacts individuals' movement, coordination, and muscle control. It is a broad and diverse condition, with each person experiencing it in a unique way. Some individuals can experience difficulties with balance or fine motor skills, while others may communicate and speak differently.
Further Reading
My Life with Cerebral Palsy: A Personal Story - Dr. Janice M. Williams
I Am a Child of Cerebral Palsy - Diane Roberts
No Excuses: A Story of Courage and Determination - Kyle Maynard
Useful Websites
https://actioncp.org/
Physical Disabilities
Physical Disabilities
Definition
A physical disability can involve an impairment in mobility, coordination or dexterity. Each physically disabled person experiences the world differently and encounters different barriers. Some examples of physical disabilities are paralysis, multiple sclerosis and arthritis.
Useful Websites
https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/
https://www.scope.org.uk/
Hidden Disabilities
Hidden Disabilities
Definition
A hidden or invisible disability, refers to any physical, mental or neurological difference that impacts on a person's ability to perform everyday activities, but is not immediately visible to others. These disabilities can impact individual's mobility, cognitive function, sensory processing, or emotional wellbeing. Some examples of hidden disabilities are chronic pain conditions, mental health conditions, neurological conditions, learning disabilities and sensory processing differences.
Useful Websites
Vision Impairments
Vision Impairments
Definition
A vision impairment is a difference where a person's ability to see is reduced partially or completely, in one or both eyes, or where vision is altered. This difference can range from colorblindness to mild difficulties with seeing clearly to total blindness, and may result from a variety of factors, including injury, disease, genetics, or aging.
Useful Websites
Hearing Impairments
Hearing Impairments
Definition
A hearing impairment is a partial or total inability to hear in one or both ears. Each person who is hearing impaired experiences their impairment very differently. People with hearing impairments communicate in various ways, including sign language, lip-reading, assistive technology, and spoken language.
Useful Websites
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