The definition of special educational needs (SEN)
The Education Act 1996 says that 'a child has special educational needs if he or she has a learning difficulty which calls for special educational provision to be made for him or her.' It also says that 'a disability, which prevents or hinders them from making use of education facilities', amounts to a learning difficulty if it calls for special educational provision to be made. Special educational provision is provision that is additional to or otherwise different from that normally available in the area to children of the same age.
The definition includes more children than those who have 'learning difficulties' in the commonly accepted sense. This is because the definition of learning difficulties in the legislation includes children who have a disability and who need something additional or different to be provided for them. So, for example, a child with a visual impairment who needs materials to be provided in an enlarged font is defined in the legislation as having a learning difficulty even if they are not behind in their learning.
Removing Barriers to Achievement
SEN Duties in Education Act 96
SEN Framework and planning duties
DDA reasonable adjustments: requirements
DDA reasonable adjustments:key factors
DDA improving access schools: requirements
DDA improving access schools: key messages
DDA improving access: LEA requirements
Page created: 11 October 2006
