Non-specific learning difficulties overview

When children have learning difficulties that are more generalised and don’t relate to a specific neural problem or immaturity, they can be described as having moderate, severe or profound and multiple learning difficulties, depending on their degree of difficulty.

Many children with non-specific or global learning difficulties have other associated special needs.
 

Classification of global learning difficulties

According to the DCFS, for a child to be classified as having MLD, SLD or PMLD they must be on School Action Plus or have a statement. In addition, MLD, SLD or PMLD must be the child’s primary or secondary need – the numbers of children with generalised learning difficulties may well be masked because, for example, a child may have autism and MLD, but have the overriding diagnosis of autism.

Education and schooling

Some special schools exist specifically for children with learning difficulties although in recent years there has been a move to educate a growing number of children with MLD in mainstream schools. Mld is perhaps the group that most divides parents about the type of schooling and education their child receives. Some feel they should be fully integrated into mainstream schooling with help and adaptations made to account for their difficulties others that a specialist MLD school which offers specialist teaching and a peer group of children with similar needs is ideal. The special-school/ mainstream school divide is not cut and dried - increasingly there is a continuum of provision - with units within mainstream schools and dual registration two of the middle-ground options. 

When it comes to provision there is no hard and fast rule.  What matters is that the child has their needs met in the best way possible; that positive dialogue exists between home, school, teachers, LA and specialists to ensure each child with special needs has the best possible chances. There is still a way to go. Where you live and the type and nature of your child's needs will have considerable bearing on their education. These issues are discussed more fully in the articles listed below. 

Related articles and features

Choosing SEN provision

Special schools

National curriculum and P levels for children with SEN

MLD - moderate learning difficulties

SLD - severe learning difficulties

PMLD - profound and multiple learning difficulties