The graduated approach: how staff can collaborate to support pupils with SEN

Understand how your teaching staff and SENCO can work together to deliver the graduated approach to SEN support. Be clear on their responsibilities at each stage, so you can be confident your staff are supporting pupils with SEN effectively.

Last reviewed on 13 August 2024
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 12730
Contents
  1. What is the 'graduated approach'?
  2. 1. Assess: identify pupils who need SEN support
  3. 2. Plan: agree a plan of support for the pupil
  4. 3. Do: put your plan into action
  5. 4. Review: evaluate current support arrangements 
  6. Repeat the cycle

What is the 'graduated approach'?

Your school's support for pupils with special educational needs (SEN) should follow a 4-part cycle called the 'graduated approach':

1. Assess: identify pupils who need SEN support
2. Plan: agree on the support you'll provide for a pupil, in consultation with the pupil and their parents/carers 
3. Do: put your plan into action
4. Review: look at the effectiveness of your support and its impact on the pupil's progress

This is explained on pages 86 and 87, and 100 to 102 of the SEND Code of Practice.

The SENCO supports teaching staff throughout the 4 stages by providing training, advice and strategic leadership. Get further details on their role here The class or subject teacher is responsible for working with the pupils on a daily basis, and has overall responsibility for