Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD)
Severe Learning Difficulties
Children and young people may have:
- global difficulties in learning new skills, age-appropriate language, social skills and academic learning
- difficulty with using knowledge in different situations
- developing age-appropriate self-help and life skills
- difficulties making and maintaining relationships
- increased vulnerability
If you think your child has SLD
If you are concerned about your child's learning, speak with your Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) Coordinator (SENCo) at your child’s school and discuss how they are supporting your child. If they need more support, this can be discussed. The school can also talk to you about if it is appropriate to refer your child to the Education Psychological (EP) Service.
Please speak to the SENCo at your child’s school or named SENCo if you think your child would benefit from advice from this service.
The Severe Learning Difficulties team
The team supports children, aged 5 to 25 years, with Severe Learning Difficulties. They provide high quality and timely support and advice to schools so that children with severe learning difficulties can flourish, be happy, included and achieve their chosen goals.
The Specialist Advisory Teachers Team (SATs) can become involved if your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
The team can give advice on the following:
- adaptive teaching, teaching strategies and resources
- transition
- wellbeing and social inclusion
- life skills
- self-help skills
- friendship skills
- safety
They can also:
- attend and contribute to Annual Reviews
- contribute to short term targets
- liaise with you, other professionals and school staff