Understanding SEN School Options in London: a guide for relocating families

1. State Mainstream Schools: The default route for many

State mainstream schools (primary and secondary) are government-funded and free to attend. They’re open to all children, including those with SEN and those who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

In fact, the majority of children with SEN in the UK are educated in mainstream schools. Why? Because it’s a parent’s legal right to have their child attend one, regardless of the child’s level of need.

These schools are required to use their “best endeavours” to support students with SEN. That might include:

• Additional in-class help from a teaching assistant

• Targeted intervention programmes

• Adapted lesson content and resources

• Access to specialist equipment

Class sizes are usually up to 30, and while state schools aren’t academically selective, some (particularly faith schools) may prioritise children based on religious criteria.

2. Specialist Resource Provisions in Mainstream Schools

Some mainstream state schools include a dedicated SEN resource provision — sometimes called a “unit”, “base” or “hub”.

These cater to specific needs such as autism, visual impairments, or speech, language and communication difficulties. Children in these provisions benefit from a blend of specialist support and mainstream integration.

Important to know:

• Your child must have an EHCP to access one of these provisions

• Spaces are limited (often just 30 or fewer across the whole school)

• Children usually split their time between the resource base and mainstream classes

Just because a school has an SEN resource provision doesn’t mean all EHCP students will be placed in it — admissions are selective and based on assessed need.

3. Independent (Private) Mainstream Schools

Independent mainstream schools charge fees and set their own admissions criteria. Some are academically selective; others are not. They also aren’t required to follow the National Curriculum.

While some private schools do welcome students with SEN (and even EHCPs), there’s no obligation for them to do so. Each school decides whether they can meet a child’s needs with the resources available — and many have far fewer SEN students than state schools.

However, there are benefits:

• Smaller class sizes (typically around 18)

• More personalised attention

• Often strong pastoral support

Private mainstream schools may include international schools and some religious schools, and they vary widely in ethos, structure and SEN support.

4. State Special Schools

State special schools are fully government-funded, but unlike mainstream schools, they only cater for children with specific additional needs. You’ll typically find:

• Higher staff-to-student ratios

• Specially trained staff

• Therapeutic services on site (like speech and language therapy)

• Small class sizes (usually 12 or fewer)

• Tailored, holistic curriculum

To access a state special school, your child must have an EHCP, and the local authority must agree that a special school is the most appropriate setting.

Unlike mainstream schools, parents do not have an automatic right to a place — it must be agreed through the EHCP process.

5. Independent Special Schools

These are private equivalents of state special schools and also support children with significant needs, often with smaller class sizes and highly specialised provision.

Some are run by charitable organisations and are “non-maintained” (still fee-paying, but not for profit). Most require students to have an EHCP, although some may allow parents to self-fund if a plan is not in place.

Like their state counterparts, these schools often specialise in particular needs — for example:

• Autism

• Dyslexia

• Social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) difficulties

Admissions can be competitive and often involve an in-depth assessment process.

6. Online and Hybrid Schools

Online schools have grown in popularity, particularly for students who struggle in traditional environments. These schools offer live, remote lessons delivered by qualified teachers, and are usually private and fee-paying.

They can work well for:

• Students with high anxiety

• Children who can’t access a local school (e.g. due to travel or health issues)

• Families seeking a more flexible or individualised approach

Some state-funded online options exist, though they are more limited. A few physical schools also offer a hybrid approach — mixing in-person attendance with online lessons.

FAQ

> Can my child with SEN attend a mainstream school in London?

Yes – all state mainstream schools in the UK are legally required to accept children with SEN, including those with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). They must make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to support your child’s learning and access to the curriculum.

> What is the difference between a state special school and a mainstream school with SEN support?

A mainstream school includes children of all abilities and provides SEN support within the classroom. A special school, on the other hand, caters specifically to children with more complex needs, offers smaller class sizes, and provides more specialist staff and resources. Special schools require an EHCP and local authority agreement.

> Does my child need an EHCP to attend a special school?

Yes. To attend either a state or independent special school (in most cases), your child will need an EHCP – and the local authority must agree that a special school is the most appropriate setting for their needs.

> Can independent (private) schools support children with SEN?

Some independent schools do support children with SEN, including those with an EHCP. However, each school sets its own admissions criteria and is not legally required to offer additional support. It’s important to check whether the school has the resources and experience to meet your child’s needs.

> What are specialist resource provisions in mainstream schools?

These are dedicated SEN units within certain mainstream schools that support children with specific needs, such as autism or speech and language difficulties. An EHCP is required to access them, and spaces are limited. Children usually split their time between the resource provision and the mainstream classroom.

> Are online schools a good option for children with SEN?

Online or hybrid schools can be a good fit for children who struggle in traditional settings, such as those with anxiety or sensory sensitivities. They offer flexibility and a personalised pace of learning. Most are private and fee-paying, but a few state-funded options exist.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right school for your child with SEN isn’t just about facilities, it’s about finding a setting where they feel safe, understood, and supported to reach their potential.

In London, there are a range of pathways depending on your child’s profile, whether they have an EHCP, and whether you’re open to state or private options.

But here’s the most important bit: you don’t have to figure this out alone.

How Simply London can help

Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or already deep into the application process, our experts can guide you every step of the way. From understanding the EHCP process to shortlisting suitable schools and preparing strong applications — we’re here to take the stress out of it all.

Contact us to learn more about our SEN school search support services, or visit our website section here.

Because finding the right school is not just about logistics:  it’s about giving your child the best possible start in their new London life.

Need help bringing your family to the UK? Our sister site Simply UK Visa offers expert guidance on family immigration. Because getting settled starts with getting here.