National Association for Special Educational Needs role

The role of the National Association for Special Educational Needs (NASEN)

Special educational needs (SEN) are a critical aspect of modern education, ensuring that all students, regardless of their abilities, have access to quality education. In the UK, the National Association for Special Educational Needs (NASEN) plays a pivotal role in supporting educators, schools, and policymakers in providing inclusive education. In this blog, Dr Richard Dune explores NASEN's role, key facts, statistics, definitions, best practices for implementing relevant legislation and regulations, and provides recommendations for further reading and action.

Key facts and statistics

According to the Department for Education, approximately 1.3 million pupils in England have special educational needs, representing around 15% of the student population. Of these, nearly 3.3% have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, and the remaining 11.7% receive SEN support. These numbers underscore the importance of effective SEN policies and practices in the education system.

Key definitions

Special Educational Needs (SEN) - Refers to the additional support required by children who have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn compared to their peers.
Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan - A legal document that describes a child or young person's special educational, health, and social care needs and the support required to meet those needs.
Inclusive education - An educational approach that aims to include all children, regardless of their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, linguistic, or other conditions, in mainstream education settings.

Supporting inclusive education

Mission and objectives

NASEN is dedicated to supporting and championing those who work with or care for children and young people with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). Its mission includes providing resources, professional development, and guidance to ensure inclusive practices in education.

Resources and training

NASEN offers a wealth of resources, including training programmes, publications, and online tools designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of educators. These resources cover a broad spectrum of SEN-related topics, from autism and dyslexia to behaviour management and effective classroom strategies.

Advocacy and policy influence

NASEN actively engages with policymakers to influence SEN legislation and regulations. By contributing to consultations and working groups, NASEN ensures that the voices of educators and SEN professionals are heard in the development of policies affecting SEN provision.

Best practices for implementing SEN legislation and regulations

Understanding the legal framework

Educators and institutions must have a thorough understanding of the legislative framework governing SEN. Key legislation includes the Children and Families Act 2014 and the SEND Code of Practice 2015. These documents outline the responsibilities of local authorities, schools, and health services in supporting children with SEN.

Developing inclusive policies

Schools should develop comprehensive SEN policies that reflect their commitment to inclusion. These policies should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure compliance with current legislation and best practices.

Effective use of EHC plans

EHC plans are crucial tools for supporting students with SEN. Schools must ensure that these plans are implemented effectively, with regular reviews and adjustments to meet the evolving needs of the student.

Professional development for staff

Ongoing professional development is essential for educators to stay informed about the latest SEN strategies and practices. NASEN provides training and resources to support this continuous learning process.

Collaboration with parents and carers

Collaboration between schools and families is vital for the success of SEN provision. Schools should foster open communication and partnership with parents and carers to ensure that the needs of the child are fully understood and met.

Recommendations

To enhance SEN provision, educational institutions should:

Utilise NASEN resources - Engage with NASEN’s training and resources to stay informed and equipped with the latest SEN practices.
Implement comprehensive policies - Develop and maintain inclusive SEN policies that align with current legislation and best practices.
Prioritise professional development - Invest in ongoing professional development for staff to ensure high-quality SEN provision.
Leverage technology - Use tools like ComplyPlus™ to manage legislation and regulatory compliance effectively.

Conclusion

The role of NASEN in supporting SEN education cannot be overstated. By providing resources, training, and advocacy, NASEN empowers educators to deliver inclusive education that meets the needs of all students. Implementing best practices in line with relevant legislation and continuously developing professional skills are essential steps for any educational institution committed to SEN.

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About the author

Dr Richard Dune

With over 20 years of experience, Richard blends a rich background in NHS, the private sector, academia, and research settings. His forte lies in clinical R&D, advancing healthcare tech, workforce development and governance. His leadership ensures regulatory compliance and innovation align seamlessly.