Schools, early years and childcare

Difficulties in learning normally come from an unsuitable environment, for instance:

• being placed in the wrong group of pupils;
• teaching styles which are not flexible;
• national curriculum material which is not accessible;
• the child's physical, sensory and cognitive impairment.

Children's emotional and mental health needs may also have a significant impact on their ability to make the most of the opportunities in school, just as much well as their family circumstances.

The Special Educational Needs (SEN) team is committed to removing the barriers to learning that many children face in school. This will need continued action over a number of years. The national curriculum contains a statutory statement, (inclusion - providing effective learning opportunities for all pupils). All schools are putting the requirement into practice and are shown how to do this on the OFSTED inspection report. The statement forms a required baseline and over time, with the disability discrimination legislation, will bring great improvements in access to education for disabled children and for those who have SEN.

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