Change the statutory term ‘Special Educational Needs’ to more inclusive language

Background

Change the term “Special Educational Needs (SEN)” in education legislation and statutory guidance to more inclusive, modern terminology such as “Additional Learning Needs” or “Learning Needs”, including in the SEND Code of Practice and relevant education law.

Additional details

We believe the term “Special Educational Needs” is widely seen by many as outdated and stigmatising. We are concerned it can reinforce deficit-based views of children. More inclusive terminology like “Additional Learning Needs” is used in Wales and we feel it reflects a modern understanding of neurodiversity, child development and inclusion. Updating this language in England could reduce stigma, increase inclusivity in school culture, and align with current research and best practice.

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