Strategies by Area of Need

About This Section

This section provides practical, evidence-based strategies for supporting pupils with specific areas of need. These strategies form part of the graduated approach to SEND support, helping teachers to make reasonable adjustments and adapt their practice to meet individual needs.

Each strategy page focuses on a particular area of need and offers concrete, actionable approaches that can be built into everyday teaching. The strategies are designed to reduce barriers to learning while maintaining high expectations for all pupils.

Using These Strategies

The strategies listed on each page should be used flexibly and responsively:

• Not every strategy will be appropriate for every pupil with that need
• Start with a small number of strategies and evaluate their impact
• Involve the pupil in selecting strategies that work for them
• Combine strategies as appropriate to the individual pupil
• Review and adapt strategies regularly based on pupil progress
• Remember that strategies should reduce barriers, not lower expectations

Available Strategy Pages

Select a need area below to view specific classroom strategies:

• ADHD: Supporting executive function, attention, and regulation
• Autism (ASC): Neurodiversity-affirming support for autistic pupils
• Attachment: Trauma-informed, relational approaches
• Auditory Processing: Reducing auditory demands and checking understanding
• Dyscalculia: Supporting mathematical thinking and reducing anxiety
• Dyslexia: Structured literacy and alternative recording methods
• Dysgraphia: Supporting written output and fine motor skills
• Global Development Delay: Differentiation and functional skills
• Hearing Impairment: Acoustic environment and visual supports
• Processing Speed: Additional time and reducing cognitive load
• Sensory Processing: Sensory regulation and environmental modifications
• Visual Impairment: Accessible materials and environmental adaptations