SEN support in settings
How the cycle works
- Assess – Understand the child’s needs through observation and discussion.
- Plan – Agree clear, achievable outcomes and strategies.
- Do – Put the plan into action consistently.
- Review – Check progress and adapt the plan if needed.
This cycle applies to all areas of need, including:
- Speech and language
- Social communication
- Cognition and learning
- Social, emotional and mental health
- Hearing impairment
- Visual impairment
- Medical needs
Speech and language
Assess
- Observe how the child communicates in different situations.
- Talk to parents and carers about what they see at home.
- Use age-appropriate checklists and screening tools.
- Consider wider factors such as hearing and health.
Plan
- Agree clear targets with parents and carers.
- Plan activities that support speech and language development.
- Include advice from speech and language therapists.
Do
- Use agreed strategies consistently.
- Adapt activities to encourage communication.
- Model good language and give time for responses.
Review
- Check progress regularly with parents.
- Update observations and adjust the plan if needed.
Social communication
Assess
- Observe how the child interacts with adults and peers.
- Gather information from parents and carers.
- Consider wider factors such as health and family circumstances.
Plan
- Agree achievable targets.
- Use strategies like visual prompts, clear routines, and turn-taking activities.
Do
- Apply strategies daily.
- Provide structured opportunities for interaction.
- Keep the environment calm and predictable
Review
- Review targets with parents.
- Adapt or change the plan if progress is limited.
Cognition and learning
Assess
- Gather information about development and learning.
- Identify strengths and areas needing support.
Plan
- Agree clear outcomes for learning and development.
- Decide on strategies and resources.
Do
- Put strategies into practice.
- Adapt activities and the environment as needed.
Review
- Check progress and record what worked well.
Social, emotional and mental health
Assess
- Observe behaviour and emotional wellbeing.
- Identify triggers or patterns.
Plan
- Agree achievable outcomes.
- Include calming techniques and routines.
Do
- Apply strategies consistently.
- Adapt routines and keep parents informed.
Review
- Use feedback from staff and parents.
- Update the plan if needs change.
Hearing impairment
Assess
- Gather information about hearing and communication needs.
- Identify how hearing loss affects learning.
Plan
- Agree outcomes for learning and communication.
- Include strategies like visual aids or assistive technology.
Do
- Put strategies into practice.
- Adapt activities and reduce background noise.
Review
- Check progress and record changes.
Visual impairment
Assess
- Gather information about vision and learning impact.
- Identify barriers like lighting or layout.
Plan
- Agree outcomes for learning and independence.
- Include tactile materials or assistive technology.
Do
- Adapt activities and the environment.
- Keep parents informed.
Review
- Check progress and update the plan.
Medical needs
Assess
- Gather information about the child’s condition.
- Review existing care plans.
Plan
- Agree outcomes for health, safety, and learning.
- Create an Individual Healthcare Plan if needed.
Do
- Ensure staff are trained and confident.
- Adapt activities to reduce risks.
Review
- Update the plan if needs change.
- Record what worked well.
Key points for all areas
- The cycle is ongoing – repeat as needed.
- Involve parents and carers at every stage.
- Keep records clear and up to date.
