An introduction to special educational needs

Sandra Hutchinson Editor of The Good Schools Guide - Special Educational Needs explains how to navigate this site, to find the answers you need to your SEN issues.

Few children fit a condition perfectly – if they do, we tend to say they are a ‘classic’ case. Most will not be straightforward, some will be comorbid, perhaps a dyslexic with dyspraxia and a touch of ADD, or a child with ASD who also has Down’s syndrome.

Identifying different kinds of special educational needs

If you have concerns, please consult  Types of SEN . This section will be a useful reference for anyone who thinks their child has a special need or who has been told their child has.  But please do not take lists of characteristics to mean your child has an SEN – how many medical students thought they were riddled with cancer because they happened to have some of the symptoms outlined in the oncology module? Whatever your thoughts, we cannot stress enough the importance of getting expert, professional opinion, sooner rather than later (See SEN personnel below and our SEN help section which contains useful names and addresses).

Who’s who?

In addition to teaching staff there are a number of professionals whose role involves helping children with special educational needs. We wanted to clear up the myths about SENCos SALTS, OTs, PT, EPs – all have invaluable roles to play in helping children with SEN, but just who are they? What do they do and how can they help your child? We explain all in the SEN personnel section.

The SEN debate

Mainstream or special, independent or state? Everyone seems to have an opinion. Some groups make sure their voices are heard loud and clear, and why not? We feature the opinions of parents, young people with SEN, teachers, charities, the Government ... those who know us well will not be surprised that we haven’t shirked from debate, we’ve encouraged it! You can follow   Schools and educational provision for SEN  (and even add your own comments).

Choosing a school

Choosing a school is not only about the cut of the cloth, it’s about getting the perfect fit, everything from the first tack to the last stitch.

Of course, there’s a difference between bespoke and Burton’s, but that doesn’t mean the former is the only, or even the right option; the suit may fit, the colour may not flatter. Some schools cater extremely well for the very bright, mildly dyslexic child, but would be hopeless for other SEN. Having good dyslexia provision alone doesn’t necessarily make it the right school for your child with dyslexia, just as having a wheelchair-accessible school doesn̵...