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Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) describe children and young people who have significant intellectual and developmental delay.
They learn at a much slower rate than their peers and require ongoing, specialist support in most areas of learning, communication and daily life.
Pupils with SLD benefit most from structured routines, repetition and multi-sensory teaching.
Children with SLD may:
SLD may be linked to:
Many pupils with SLD also have associated speech, physical or health needs requiring coordinated care.
Assessment is usually carried out by:
Every pupil with SLD requires an EHCP outlining their long-term education, health and therapy provision.
Progress is measured through personalised learning goals rather than age-based expectations.
Education for children with SLD focuses on:
Specialist settings may use approaches such as TEACCH, Intensive Interaction, or multi-sensory learning.
Effective teaching includes:
