The Unique Child

This chapter provides the unique child and introduces practitioner to the policy around inclusion and how to create an inclusive practice. It also introduces Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) legislation and look at the new Education, Health and Care (ECH) plans which bring health and education planning together. The key pieces of policy affecting practice with regard to SEND are The Children and Families Act, The Statutory Framework in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), The Equality Act and the SEND Code of Practice. The framework demands that practitioners provide equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practices, ensuring that every child is included and supported. The SEND code of practice 0 to 25 years highlights a commitment to inclusive education and the progressive removal of barriers to learning and participation in mainstream education. The chapter looks at the unique child in practice and practical strategies for inclusive practice.