Severe Learning Difficulty (SLD)
- Most children with SLD will have an EHCP
- Many attend special schools, though some thrive in mainstream with specialist support
- People with SLD can and do live meaningful, happy lives
- Parental involvement is one of the biggest factors in positive outcomes
What is Severe Learning Difficulty?
Children with SLD have significant difficulties with learning across all areas. They need substantial support with most of the curriculum and may also need help with personal care and daily living skills.
These children often have wonderful personalities and can form deep, meaningful relationships. They experience joy, frustration, humour, and every other emotion — they just need more support to navigate the world.
Most children with SLD will have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). They may attend a mainstream school with substantial support, a specialist unit within a mainstream school, or a special school.
👀 What you might notice
- Needing significant help with all areas of learning
- Working well below age-related expectations
- Making progress in very small steps
- Learning best through sensory and practical experiences
- May communicate using some words alongside signs, symbols, or gestures
- May need support with personal care (dressing, toileting, feeding)
- Needing routines and familiar structures to feel safe
- May have additional physical or medical needs
How schools can help
A curriculum focused on communication, independence, and functional skills alongside academic learning
More adults in the classroom to provide individual or small group support
Learning through touch, movement, music, and visual resources
Using speech alongside signs (like Makaton), symbols, and visual supports
Dignified, sensitive support with daily living skills
Speech therapy, OT, and physio built into the school day
🏠 What you can do at home
- Celebrate every achievement, however small — your child is working hard
- Use Makaton signs or visual supports at home if these work at school
- Stick to routines where possible — predictability builds confidence
- Connect with other parents: special school parent groups can be a lifeline
- Make time for joy: play, music, sensory activities — not everything has to be 'educational'
- Look after yourself: caring for a child with SLD is rewarding but can be exhausting
🤝 Organisations that can help
🔗 Related conditions
SEN types often overlap. Your child may have more than one area of need. Here are conditions commonly linked to Severe Learning Difficulty:
Note: This guide is for general information only. Every child is unique, and SEN types often overlap. If you have concerns about your child, speak to your child's school SENCO and your GP. For legal advice on SEN rights, contactIPSEA (free).