How SEN support is decided

In Newcastle, we use the Descriptors of Need guides to help decided what Special Educational Needs (SEN) support is required. The guides are used to;

understanding the level of need of a child or young person
planning and choosing the support that will meet their needs
making sure that support is consistent and fair
helping parents and carers to understand:
- their child's needs
- how they should be supported in school

There are different guides that cover different ages and each area of need.

What does a Descriptors of Need guide look like?

Each guide is divided into ranges. These show different levels of need for a child or young person.

Many guides will have 7 ranges. However, this number can be lower.

Mild needs - Complex needs

Range 1

Range 2

Range 3

Range 4

Range 5

Range 6

Range 7

For each range there are:

examples of what a a child or young person might be struggling with
suggestions on how a child or young person can be supported through:
- assessment and planning
- teaching and learning strategies
- curriculum and intervention
- resources and staffing

The best way to understand a Descriptor of Need guide is to look at one. As an example, here's the Descriptors of Need guide for cognition and learning in school age children.

How do I use a Descriptor of Need guide?

We recommend you look at descriptors with others working with you or your child.

Visit SEND descriptors of need.
Click the age phase of the child or young person. This is either:
1. early years
2. school age
3. post-16
Click the area of need of the child or young person
Read the bullet points under each range which describe what the child or young person might be struggling with
Decide which range that best describes the child or young person
Click the boxes in that range to see recommendations for support

Please know that sometimes a child or young person might be between ranges.

Kinship Care Week (5th – 11th October 2026)