Practical examples of changes schools can make so disabled children can access learning, routines and school life.
7 min read
If your child is unsafe, self-harming, being harmed, missing significant education, or you feel close to crisis, seek same-day help from the right service: GP, NHS 111, 999 in an emergency, school safeguarding lead, social care, or your local mental health crisis route.
Reasonable adjustments are changes that reduce disadvantage for a disabled pupil. They are not special treatment; they are part of making education accessible.
The right adjustment depends on the child, the barrier and the setting. Ask for adjustments to be written into SEN Support plans or EHCP provision where possible.
Examples include sensory breaks, ear defenders, movement breaks, visual instructions, alternative uniform, quiet lunch space, extra processing time, modified homework, chunked instructions, assistive technology, adjusted seating, reduced copying, safe adult check-ins and predictable transitions.
For anxiety or attendance, reasonable adjustments might include a soft start, trusted adult meet-and-greet, quiet arrival route, reduced public questioning, or a phased return plan.
Instead of saying 'please support my child more', describe the barrier and ask for a specific adjustment: 'Because lunch hall noise leads to panic and refusal, please trial a quieter eating space for four weeks and review attendance afterwards.'
Ask how staff will know the adjustment is happening and when it will be reviewed.
Local SENDIASS, parent carer forums, Local Offer pages and SEND services vary by area. Set your location on SENDadvisor to bring local contacts into view alongside this national guidance.
Back to resourcesLast reviewed: 18 June 2026
