What is SEND?
As in many areas of life, people are taking a look at the terminology they use when describing children with special needs.
Many people favour the abbreviation ‘SEN’ – ‘special educational needs’ – to describe young people who have a physical, emotional, neurological or mental health condition which means they need extra assistance to help them gain an education. More recently, however, other people are choosing instead to use ‘SEND’ which stands for ‘special educational needs and disabilities’.
What is the Difference Between SEN/SEND?
In truth, there is very little difference in the two descriptions. The term ‘special needs’ can be applied to a huge range of challenges from being blind, for example, or hearing-impaired to being dyslexic or socially-anxious.
Many of the conditions which come under the special needs umbrella – such as autism, ADHD or being a wheelchair-user – are officially classified as disabilities because they impact a person’s ability to study, work or live a ‘normal’ life.
Even so, many educationalists feel it is more inclusive to add a ‘D’ for ‘disabilities’ to the acronym, recognising it as a category in its own right.
Find a Tutor that specialises in SEN/SEND
Discover qualified tutors with expertise in working with students with SEN/SEND with our online Tutor Finder.
Four Categories of SEN or SEND
Experts generally agree that there are four areas of difficulty which could be described as special needs:
- Challenges with communication or social interaction
- Difficulties with cognition and learning
- Social, emotional or health problems
- Sensory or physical needs
Children may have difficulties in more than one area. Some of their challenges may be classified as a disability, while others aren’t.
Legal Terms
Regardless of whether you use ‘SEN’ or ‘SEND’, both are legally-recognised terms which mean a young person has certain rights and protections.
According to the website of the charity IPSEA – Independent Provider of Special Education Advice – a child can be classified as having special needs if they have a learning difficulty and/or a disability which makes it difficult for them to use school or college facilities in the same way as their peers. If these challenges mean that additional help needs to be put in place, they have SEN/SEND.
In addition to classroom provision, having special needs may also mean a child needs extra health or social support such as speech and language therapy, psychological interventions or occupational therapy.
SEN or SEND Doesn’t Always Mean an EHCP
Local authorities are legally responsible for identifying and assessing the special needs of the young people they care for. They are obliged to support a child to achieve the ‘best possible educational and other outcomes’.
If a student can’t be supported at school through existing methods, they will be granted an EHCP which details exactly what additional support will be required and includes input from the parents. The plan will be reviewed and updated annually.
Useful Contacts
- MindMind is a UK charity that provides advice, support, and services to help people experiencing mental health problems. Visit them here.
- The UK Trauma CouncilThe UK Trauma Council provides guidance, training, and resources to help professionals understand and respond to childhood trauma. Contact them here.
Complex & medical needs
For children with multiple, or complex needs, we can help you find a Tutor with the perfect skills and experience.
Some of our SEN/SEND tutors
At SENsational Tutors, all our tutors have experience and expertise working with SEND students.
Chaachi
Online
In-person
London
Drawing on 15 years of experience, I provide supportive English, maths, and exam tuition for autism, ADHD, and SEN. I ensure practical, calm sessions where students feel secure to progress.
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Kelly
In-person
London
For 21 years, I've provided evidence-based English and maths tuition for autism, ADHD, and SEN. My structured, compassionate approach develops independence and measurable progress.
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Richard
In-person
Hyde
(1 review)
As an experienced tutor, I work with autism, ADHD, and SEN students in English, maths, and GCSEs. I build calm, supportive lessons that help learners feel secure and ready to progress.
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Kate
Online
In-person
Maidstone
With 20 years' experience, I craft encouraging maths and science lessons for autism, ADHD, and SEN. I empower learners to feel confident, secure, and ready to make real progress.
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Darcey
In-person
Leeds
(1 review)
I offer evidence-based tutoring for autism, ADHD, and SEN in English, maths, and exams. My structured, empathetic approach develops strong understanding and fosters student independence.
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Melissa
Online
In-person
East Grinstead
With 25 years' experience, I adapt lessons for autism, ADHD, and SEN. I set clear, personalised goals to nurture strengths and ensure long-term success and measurable progress.
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Phil
Online
In-person
Folkestone
(17 reviews)
With 15+ years in education, I provide specialist SEN support, building strong, trusting bonds that help young people grow in confidence and succeed in their own way.
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Louise
Online
In-person
Welling
(3 reviews)
I offer 23 years of classroom experience with an additional 2 years in home tutoring. My structured, empathetic approach inspires confidence, builds understanding and promotes independent learning.
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Local Authorities
We often work with local authorities to provide safe, measurable and properly documented education to young people with SEN/SEND.
Our tutors are all qualified (QTS) teachers with specialist SEND experience. They are also trained in trauma-informed approaches to education. We provide detailed, evidence-based progress reports, attend MDT and review meetings, and maintain consistent communication with local authority representatives.
With the training and the experience to teach children who have experienced school trauma, complex autism, PDA or non-speaking presentations, SENsational Tutors provide qualified SEN tutors for local authorities and schools across the UK.
Tutoring Options
There are several different types of tutoring available through SENsational Tutors.
Private Tuition
Many of our highly qualified SEND tutors can provide one to one tuition at your home.
Online Tuition
All our online tutors provide one to one tuition, ensuring your child gets dedicated support.
Home Schooling
Our dedicated SENational tutors can provide the education and support for elective home education.
EOTAS
SENsational Tutors can provide expert tutors through your EOTAS package or personal budget.
How it works
At SENsational Tutors, we aim to make your life as a parent easier and will work with you to help source the most suitable SEN tutor or professional for your child.
- Find a TutorUse our easy online tool to find experienced SEND tutors who have the skills your child needs.
- Meet your Tutor for freeBook in a free consultation with your chosen Tutor, to make sure they’re the right fit for your child.
- Book sessions directYou can then arrange tutoring sessions directly with your Tutor, giving you greater control over your availability.
“Sensational tutors have been amazing and helped me to find the perfect match for my daughter.”
Stacey
UK
What we cover
Our Tutors cover a wide range of ages, educational levels and subjects, and you can find details on each Tutor’s individual profile.
Subjects we cover
- Maths
- English/Literacy
- Science
- Homework support
- General engagement
- Confidence and self esteem
- Study skills
- Executive functioning skills
- Social communication
- Language skills
Multiple Academic levels
- Early years
- Post 16
- Primary
- Adult
- Secondary
Find a Tutor that specialises in SEN/SEND
Use our online Tutor Finder to discover experienced and qualified tutors with SEN/SEND experience.
“Our experience with SENsational tutors has been completely positive...
My son has a number of additional needs and being matched with the tutor John has proven to be a very good match indeed. He has helped my son improve his English skills in a number of areas from grammar to preparation for SATs. The additional confidence my son has gained from these sessions has also been really lovely to see.”
Caroline
UK
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Find a Tutor that specialises in SEN/SEND
Use our online Tutor Finder to discover experienced and qualified tutors with SEN/SEND experience.
