Understanding SEND

In the SEND Code of Practice, there are four broad areas of special educational needs, that should be identified and focused on within educational settings.

The four main SEND areas are:

1. Communication and Interaction

2. Cognition and Learning

3. Social, Emotional and Mental Health difficulties

4. Physical and/or Sensory Needs

With regard to these categories, the Code states that "Many children and young people have difficulties that fit clearly into one of these areas; some have needs that span two or more areas; for others the precise nature of their need may not be clear at the outset."