SEN Education Explained: Mainstream vs. Specialist Schools – What Sets Them Apart?

In the realm of education, one size certainly does not fit all. As we journey into the intricate landscape of Special Educational Needs (SEN) education, we find that the options available to students and their families are as diverse as the learners themselves. Among these options, two distinct paths often stand out: Mainstream SEN and Specialist SEN schools.

Navigating the choices in SEN education can be both enlightening and challenging. It’s a journey filled with considerations, each path offering unique opportunities and tailored approaches to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities or learning difficulties.

In this blog series we embark on a monthly exploration of the differences between Mainstream SEN and Specialist SEN schools. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about the world of SEN education, join us on this enlightening journey as we uncover the key distinctions that make each of these options invaluable for the students they serve.

So, to start off let’s explore does SEN stand for? Well, SEN stands for “Special Educational Needs” in schools. It refers to a category of educational needs for students who require additional support and accommodations due to various disabilities or learning difficulties. These needs can range from physical disabilities and sensory impairments to learning disabilities, such as dyslexia or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). SEN services and support aim to provide these students with the assistance and resources necessary to access education and achieve their full potential. In many educational systems, there are specialised programs, teachers, and resources dedicated to supporting students with SEN.

So now we have the definition of SEN, what are the differences between mainstream and specialist schools?

The main difference between SEN (Special Educational Needs) provision in mainstream schools and SEN specialist schools lies in the setting and focus of the educational environment:

Mainstream Schools:

Inclusion: Mainstream schools aim to provide an inclusive environment where students with SEN are educated alongside their peers without disabilities. They may receive additional support within the mainstream classroom or through pull-out sessions in a resource unit within the school.

Varied Support: In mainstream schools, SEN provision can vary widely depending on the school’s resources, policies, and the individual needs of the students. Some mainstream schools have designated Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) to oversee support and accommodations.

Diverse Student Population: Mainstream schools typically have a diverse student population, including students with and without SEN. This environment encourages social integration and exposes students to a wide range of abilities and backgrounds.

Access to General Curriculum: Students with SEN in mainstream schools generally follow the general curriculum, with modifications or accommodations as needed. The goal is to provide an inclusive education that prepares all students for mainstream life.

SEN Specialist Schools:

Specialisation: SEN specialist schools are specifically designed and staffed to cater exclusively to students with SEN. They have a high level of expertise in addressing various types and degrees of special needs.

Tailored Curriculum: The curriculum in SEN specialist schools is highly tailored to meet the unique needs of their students. It can encompass a wide range of specialised programs and therapies.

Small Class Sizes: These schools often have smaller class sizes and a higher staff-to-student ratio to provide more individualised attention and support.

Specialised Resources: SEN specialist schools typically have specialised resources, facilities, and equipment to address the specific needs of their students, whether that be for physical disabilities, sensory impairments, or learning difficulties.

Therapeutic Services: Many SEN specialist schools offer on-site therapeutic services such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and counselling to address students’ needs comprehensively.

In summary, the primary difference is the setting and level of specialisation. Mainstream schools aim for inclusion and offer support within a diverse student population, while SEN specialist schools focus exclusively on students with special educational needs and provide highly tailored programs and resources. The choice between the two depends on the individual needs of the student and the available educational options in each area.

Join us next month for the next instalment of our SEN series where we will be looking into what is a SENCO and what does their job role look like.