Introduction to SEND Support in Schools

COURSE

Make a Difference to Children with Additional Needs with this Introductory Tailored Learning Programme

The Introduction to SEND Support in Schools is designed for individuals who want to develop an understanding of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and explore how to support children and young people with additional needs in educational settings.

This programme provides a supportive introduction to SEND support, helping learners build confidence, awareness, and essential knowledge needed when working with children who may require extra help with learning, communication, or behaviour. It is ideal for learners with little or no previous experience, or those considering a future role in education, childcare, or SEND support.

Throughout the programme, learners will develop essential knowledge and awareness including understanding different types of SEND, communication strategies, inclusive practice, safeguarding awareness, and supporting learners in a respectful and positive way. Learning focuses on real‑life situations, helping learners understand how SEND support works in everyday educational environments.

This course is particularly suitable for:

Aspiring SEND or learning support assistants
Parents or carers supporting children with additional needs
Individuals returning to learning or work
Learners exploring progression into Level 2 or Level 3 education or SEND qualifications

By the end of the programme, learners will have a clearer understanding of SEND support roles and feel more confident in their ability to support children and young people effectively, either through further training, volunteering, or employment pathways.

All Upcoming Courses

Introduction to SEND Support in Schools

Qualification Overview

Day One

Welcome & Introduction
Safeguarding Children
Fundamental British Values

Day Two

The Prevent Duty
Child Development 0-19
Recognising and Supporting Children with SEND

Day Three

Supporting Children on the Autism Spectrum
Supporting Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Equality, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Education / Cultural Awareness

Day Four

Inclusion in the Early Years
Supporting Children with Dyslexia
The Role of the SENCO

FUNDING CRITERIA

This course is fully funded through Gloucestershire Adult Education and is available free of charge to eligible learners.

To be eligible, learners must:

Be aged 19 or over on 31 August 2026.
Live in Gloucestershire.
Have the right to live and work in the UK.
Meet the residency requirements for publicly funded adult education.
Be able to benefit from the learning programme.

Our team will check eligibility and provide Information, Advice and Guidance before enrolment.

Progression opportunities

Learners can access up to 4 First Steps programmes as part of a planned learning journey. For example, a learner may complete:

Introduction to Early Years → Introduction to Supporting Teaching and Learning → Introduction to SEND Support → Preparing to Learn

Each course helps learners build confidence, develop new skills and make informed decisions about future career and learning pathways.

You can progress into a Level 1 Award in an Introduction to Early Years Settings, or a Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties.

The programme also includes a guaranteed job interview with one of our partner employers.

Qualification Reference Number (QRN)

N/A

Total qualification time (TQT):

Guided learning hours (GLH)

Accreditation

N/A

Mode of Delivery

Online

Entry requirements:

Be aged 19 or over on 31 August 2026.

Live in England (please check if funding is available in your area).

Have the right to live and work in the UK.

Meet the residency requirements for publicly funded adult education.

Be able to benefit from the learning programme.

Mandatory Units

15 CPD Units

Assessment

Online Interactive quiz

Real Work Environment (RWE)

Not required

COURSE