IPSEA
Independent Provider of Special Education Advice (IPSEA) offers free and independent legally based education advice to parents of children with SEND. They also provide training on the SEND legal framework to parents and carers.
Information & advice
SEN support in primary schools
Primary school can be a big step for any child, and even more so for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Whether your child is starting Reception, transferring to a new setting, or already at primary school and needing extra support, this guide is here to help you feel informed, supported, and confident as you navigate your child’s primary school journey.
Why understanding SEN support matters
Every child has the right to an education that meets their needs. It’s not just a nice idea; it’s a right that’s protected in law.
Understanding how SEND support works in primary schools means you can feel more confident about the steps being taken to help your child thrive right from the start. It helps you work in partnership with teachers, know what support your child is entitled to, and make sure their needs are being met in a way that works for them.
With the right knowledge, you can be a strong advocate for your child and ensure they get the best possible start in their education.
Types of primary schools
Mainstream primary schools
Most children attend mainstream primary schools. These schools are required to make reasonable adjustments and provide extra help so that children with additional needs can take part in lessons and school life.
Mainstream schools follow the graduated approach, this means assessing, planning, doing, and reviewing support regularly, to see what works and what needs adjusting.
Find out more about the graduated approach in our SEN support in schools guide here.
How SEND is supported in mainstream:
- Differentiated teaching: Lessons are adapted to meet different needs and learning styles.
- Support staff: Teaching assistants may support individuals or small groups.
- Small group work: Focused sessions on phonics, literacy, social skills, motor skills, or emotional regulation.
Examples of adjustments your child might receive:
- A visual timetable to help them understand the structure of the day.
- Sensory breaks if they feel overwhelmed.
- Extra processing time during lessons or assessments.
- A quiet space to retreat to when needed.
- Fidget toys, ear defenders, or movement cushions.
With the right support in place, mainstream schools can be a positive and inclusive setting where your child can make friends, feel part of the community, and develop their confidence as well as their learning.
SEN schools
Some children have more complex or significant needs that can’t be met within a mainstream school. In these cases, a SEN school may be the most appropriate setting. This usually applies to children with an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan).
Types of SEN schools include:
- Autism-specific schools – designed for children with a diagnosis of autism.
- Speech and language schools – supporting communication-based needs.
- Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) schools – for children who may struggle with behaviour, trauma, or emotional wellbeing.
- Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) schools – for children with significant cognitive and physical needs.
Placement in a SEN school must be agreed as part of an EHCP and usually involves advice from professionals and the local authority.
Other options
Some families may decide to home educate their child. You don’t need permission unless your child attends a SEN school. It’s a legal and valid option, but comes with responsibilities, especially around SEND support, which can be harder to access outside the school system.
If you’re thinking about this, it’s worth getting advice from SENDIASS or a support organisation first. At Kids, we provide SENDIAS service in several regions across the UK. Find out more about our SENDIAS service here.
What is a SENCO?
Every mainstream school has a SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). This is a qualified teacher with extra training in SEND who leads the school’s approach to supporting children with additional needs.
The SENCO works with teachers, support staff, outside professionals, and – most importantly – you. They help to:
- Identify your child’s needs
- Put support strategies in place
- Monitor progress and adjust interventions
- Coordinate referrals to external services (like speech and language therapy, educational psychology, or occupational therapy)
- Work with you on EHCP requests if your child needs a higher level of support
You can ask to speak to the SENCO at any point. You might want to discuss early concerns, review progress, get help understanding a diagnosis or report, or explore whether your child might need an EHCP.
You can usually request a meeting via the school office or by emailing directly. Some schools offer regular SEND drop-ins or surgeries – ask what’s available.
Everyday school life for children with SEND
The graduated approach is a step-by-step process that all schools and early years settings use to support children with SEN. It’s a way of identifying a child’s needs, planning the right support, and checking how well it’s working, all while keeping the parents/carers involved.
It’s called ‘graduated’ because it’s a flexible, personalised approach. Support is carefully tailored to the child’s needs, recognising that these needs may change over time. This means the support can be adjusted as necessary.
What might be adapted
- A staggered start or soft landing in the morning
- A named adult to check in with during transitions
- Quiet corners in the classroom or a dedicated sensory space
- Tailored learning resources and visuals
- Access to nurture groups or social groups
Things to look out for
You know your child best. Keep an eye out for changes or challenges, such as:
- Increased meltdowns or shutdowns after school
- Struggles with friendships or playtimes
- Fatigue, particularly after sensory-heavy days
- Avoidance of specific lessons or parts of the day
All of these may be signs your child needs more support or adjustments in place.
Common stress points:
- Assemblies (loud, crowded, unpredictable)
- Lunchtime dining area (lots of noise, smells, and transitions)
- Playtimes (social demands, unstructured time)
- PE or music (sensory overload, performance anxiety)
Work together with your child’s school to build a routine that helps them feel calm, safe, and understood. Simple strategies – like social stories, transition cards, or a calm-down plan – can make a big difference in easing stress and helping your child enjoy their day.
Transitions within primary school
Some children with SEND may find change especially hard. That’s why smooth, well-supported transitions are so important.
Starting reception
Starting school is a huge step. Good transition support might include:
- Extra visits to the classroom before the start date.
- A “meet the teacher” booklet with photos.
- A home visit or early planning meeting.
- Collaboration with your child’s nursery or health professionals.
Year 2 to Year 3 (KS1 to KS2)
This is often overlooked but can be a big shift – new expectations, more independence, and a different part of the school. Transition support may include:
- Visits to the new classroom
- Buddy systems or key adults in place
- Regular routines introduced slowly over time
Year 6 to Secondary School
Your primary SENCO will play a key role in helping you and your child prepare for secondary transition. This can include extra visits, transition booklets, and support from external professionals.
Questions to ask when visiting or choosing a primary school
Choosing the right school isn’t just about Ofsted reports or catchment areas – it’s about finding a place where your child feels safe, accepted, and supported.
Questions you could ask:
- How do you support children with SEND day to day?
- What is your approach to inclusion and reasonable adjustments?
- Can I meet the SENCO or staff who will work with my child?
- What training have staff had in specific needs (e.g. autism, ADHD, dyslexia)?
Listen For phrases like:
- Inclusive practice
- Graduated approach
- Child-centred support
- Partnership with families
- Individualised learning plans
And always remember – trust your instincts. You know when something feels right (or doesn’t). If a school seems open, welcoming, and genuinely understanding of your child’s needs, that’s a good sign.
Explore a full list of questions you may want to ask by reading our Questions to ask Primary School guide.
How we can help
As a parent or carer, you don’t have to navigate the SEND system alone – support networks, professionals, and resources are here to guide you, helping you feel confident in advocating for your child’s needs.
SENDIAS services
We provide SENDIAS (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice and Support) services in several regional areas. Our support is free, impartial, and confidential, offering guidance to families of children and young people with SEND.
We’re here to help you understand your rights, navigate the SEND system, and support you through important decisions about education, health, and care.
“Kids were the first people to ever back me up in meetings regarding education. They were knowledgeable, supportive and helpful in every way.”
Useful links
Contact
Contact provide online, printed and helpline advice on education, benefits and finances, childcare, social care, medical information and more. They run programmes across the UK, including information sessions, workshops, drop-ins in hospitals and parenting courses.
EHCP process
Find out more about the EHCP process; requesting an EHC assessment, creating an EHC plan and disagreeing with a decision.
Find your local authority
Enter your postcode on the GOV.UK website to find your local authority, then visit their SEN support section to learn more about the support available in your area.