Glossary & Resources

Glossary

The world of Special Educational Needs (SEN) is often full of acronyms, abbreviations and different organisations, which can often feel like navigating your way through a minefield. We have put together this glossary to help you better understand the different names and terms you might encounter.

We hope you find this helpful – please feel free to share, or contact us if you feel there is a term that needs adding!

ASC/ASD stands for Autism Spectrum Conditions/Autism Spectrum Disorder. A spectrum condition which is a developmental disorder which affects people in different ways. They may struggle with social communication and interaction, can have restrictive and repetitive behaviours, sensory sensitivities and have anxieties.

PDA
PDA stands for Pathological Demand Avoidance; it was first documented in the 1980s and is characterised by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and an anxiety-driven need to be in control.

ADHD
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder and covers a range of behaviour disorders, including poor concentration, hyperactivity and learning difficulties.

Developmental Trauma – Term used to describe the impact of early, repeated trauma and loss which happens within the child’s key relationships, and usually early in life.

Attachment Disorder – Term used to describe patterns of behaviour which are the result of a lack of development of normal bonds with a primary caregiver in early childhood.

ASDAN stands for Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network

NCFE
NCFE is a provider of educational services in the UK.

DSL
DSL stands for Designated Safeguarding Lead. This person has the authority and status within SENse Learning to carry out the duties of the post including committing resources and, where appropriate, supporting and directing other Associates. The role ensures safeguarding policy is at the forefront of everything we do.

EHCP
EHCP stands for Education, Health and Care Plan. It outlines any special educational needs a child has, and the provision a local authority must put in place.

LA
LA stands for Local Authority, the Local Authority is responsible for all the public services including education in a particular area.

AP stands for Alternative Provision

OT stands for Occupational Therapy

SaLT stands for Speech and Language Therapy

Cognitive Style
Cognitive Style is the usual way you approach learning or problem solving. Other words similar in meaning: ‘Learning Style’.

Disability
Disability can be physical or hidden and experienced differently by each individual. It is an umbrella term that can be applied to a range of different experiences, such as physical and sensory impairments, mental health conditions, learning differences and long term or chronic illnesses.

Resources

Mental Health Support:

YoungMinds – https://www.youngminds.org.uk/

The Mix – https://www.themix.org.uk/

Shout – https://giveusashout.org/

Mencap – https://www.mencap.org.uk/

SEN Support:

National Autistic Society – https://www.autism.org.uk/

IPSEA – https://www.ipsea.org.uk

PDA Society – https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/

Other:

Refuge (Domestic abuse): https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk