How SEN is identified and assessed in education

Overview

Children and young people's needs are identified and assessed at the earliest point.

For most children this is in the early years, but it may be at any point throughout their education.

Support needs can change over time and schools / settings are responsible for regularly reviewing a child / young person's needs.

In this section you can find out more about:

What 'Special Educational Needs' are
How SEN is defined.

Types of Special Educational Needs in education
There are four broad areas of need. Your child may have needs across more than one area.

How education needs are assessed
How your child / young person's education needs will be assessed.

The SEND Ranges
The guidance used by schools / settings which describes the needs children and young people may have, and the support and services they may need.