Autism​/SEMH​/SEND Specialism Support - North 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Display challenging or withdrawn behaviour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:

Communication & Interaction

Cognition & Learning

Social, Emotional & Mental Health

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