Autism/SEMH/SEND Specialism Support - North London Secondary School

SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health)

SEMH is one of the four broad areas of need in the Department for Education SEND Code of Practice.

Children with SEMH may:

• Struggle with emotional regulation

• Show anxiety, low mood, or attachment difficulties

• Display challenging or withdrawn behaviour

• Have experienced trauma or adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)

Support might include:

• ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant)

• Therapeutic interventions (CBT-informed, play therapy)

• Behaviour support plans

• Pastoral mentoring

• Access to CAMHS (via National Health Service)

Autism (ASC/ASD)

Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference affecting communication, interaction, and sensory processing.

Autistic learners may:

• Prefer routine and predictability

• Experience sensory sensitivities

• Find social communication challenging

• Have focused interests

• Mask difficulties in school

Support strategies:

• Structured environments (visual timetables, now/next boards)

• Clear, literal language

• Sensory adjustments (quiet spaces, movement breaks)

• Social communication interventions

• Autism-specific staff training

Guidance is informed by the National Autistic Society and statutory guidance from the Department for Education.

SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities)

SEND covers four broad areas of need under the Code of Practice:

1. Communication & Interaction

2. Cognition & Learning

3. Social, Emotional & Mental Health

4. Sensory & Physical

Children may receive:

• SEN Support (school-based provision)

• An EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan)

• Targeted or specialist provision

• Outreach from specialist settings

Specialist Support Options

Depending on level of need, support may include:

• Mainstream school with additional provision

• Resource base or ARP (Additionally Resourced Provision)

• Specialist SEMH school

• Specialist autism provision

• Alternative provision

View Full Details