
Creating inclusive classrooms: strategies for success
In 2024, the National Audit Office (NAO) highlighted the crisis in the SEND system, noting limited progress in making mainstream schools more inclusive. Without further investment and changes, the gap between SEND pupils and their peers may continue. In the meantime, educators and schools can take steps toward creating inclusive classrooms.
The number of pupils with special educational needs (SEN) has increased over the last five years. Schools today recognise the importance of accommodating pupils with disabilities to ensure they receive the same education as their peers.
Inclusive classroom challenges
Learners' needs vary - from physical disabilities to neurodiverse conditions such as dyslexia and ADHD. Educators need to ensure all pupils feel included, understood and confident. Supporting SEND learners needs thoughtful strategies.
How to create an inclusive classroom
Although classroom modifications are for specialist SEN support, they benefit all learners. Tweaks in the classroom can make a significant difference. Start with a sensory audit before making changes. Do your learners need accommodations?
Layout
The physical layout of the classroom should promote accessibility and comfort for the entire class. For physically disabled pupils, ensure that their seating arrangement is accessible. Is there space for mobility aids, clear sightlines to instructional areas, and proximity to support resources? Advocate for accessibility, as accessible resources and accommodations help create an inclusive learning environment.
Implement a classroom seating plan. Doors and windows may distract some SEN learners, so consider this when planning. School classrooms should be tidy and organised, with materials labelled. Transparent storage boxes can help the class find what they need. A clean, uncluttered learning environment goes a long way in reducing distractions. This can help SEND learners stay focused.
Organisation
ADHD and autistic learners function better without anxiety about what lies ahead. Visual timelines are a good way to ensure the student knows what is happening during the day. This could be a plan of the day on the board or lesson structures. Displaying visual cues, including wall charts, timetables, and colour-coded resources, can aid navigation and understanding. Displays should contain material that pupils can refer to in lessons. Some learners, especially those with autism, may need sensory deprivation to focus and avoid being overwhelmed. Yet, it should not be so bold or detailed that it overwhelms learners or distracts them from their learning.
Your classroom should be a calm environment and free of excessive noise. A quiet classroom area with noise-reducing headphones, blankets, dim lights, and minimal sound can also help SEND pupils. Some learners who need help with writing, such as dyslexic learners, might need more time in a quiet environment.
Resources
Ensure you have enough resources and supplies for the term. ADHD and dyslexia learners often struggle with planning projects, organising tasks, and managing time. Educators can help by providing charts, folders, checklists, calendars with deadlines, and/or post-it notes in classrooms. Supply headphones, calculators, or large-print text for learners who may need them.
Safe and inclusive
Ensure your classroom is a safe space to ask questions. Research shows pupils in psychologically safe classrooms have more self-confidence and better wellbeing.
As learners with ADHD often don’t sit still for long, giving them an errand gives them a legitimate reason to get away from their desks. This could include collecting class assignments or wiping down whiteboards. Small tasks provide a purposeful movement break while keeping them engaged and contributing to the classroom.
A well-designed classroom supports learning and aids independence and confidence in SEND pupils. Although classroom modifications are for SEN support, they benefit all learners. Classroom tweaks can make a significant difference.
Technology
Assistive technologies like text-to-speech software, interactive learning platforms, and Universal Design for Learning resources can enhance classroom inclusivity by adapting teaching to meet diverse needs. Learners feel embarrassed when an educator has to assist them in front of the class. Text-to-speech technology enables learners to have written content read aloud by a computer or tablet.
Planning lessons
Planning is key to helping SEND learners in the classroom. Consider instructional strategies that support inclusive education:
Be ready to adapt your teaching style depending on the learner's responses to your topic.
Design kinaesthetic lessons to get the class moving. Neurodivergent learners don’t learn well when they sit for a long time.
Use a multi-sensory teaching approach so a learner’s brain can process and store information. Paired learning, small groups, and peer tutoring gives every pupil access to learning.
Ensure your plans enable you to check in with your SEND learners.
During the class
All pupils have varying attention spans, with SEN learners like those with ADHD particularly prone to distraction. All pupils learn best with an engaging curriculum. To maintain engagement, consider:
self-paced work
different teaching methods to maintain interest
colour-coded plans
games
interactive learning tools
Using bite-sized chunks in teaching benefits all learners. Rosenshine’s second Principle of Instruction highlights the importance of presenting information in small, sequential steps. Breaking down information into manageable pieces helps SEN learners process and understand information.
Decrease the emphasis on time in class exercises. Some SEND learners become anxious with deadlines and time pressure. The common phrase “This should only take five minutes to complete” can cause extra stress for some learners. Stay flexible about how long activities take, offer extra time, or modify for those who need it.
Particular times will be tricky for educators, such as the start of lessons, lunchtimes, or setting homework. At these times, a teaching assistant can help. If this support is not available, adapting transition times can help.
Often, SEN learners need reminders of classroom rules to consolidate them as part of the school day. Praise those in the class who follow the rules. Give corrective feedback immediately and in private after negative behaviour.
Get classroom support
In 2023, only 20% of SEND pupils met the expected reading, writing, and maths standards at Key Stage 2. Without the right support, pupils fall behind their peers. This impacts their future life chances.
When SEN pupils learn new topics or prepare for exams, SEN teaching assistants and tutors can support those who need it. Tutors and teaching assistants can help SEN learners remain focused on areas they struggle with. Utilising the teaching assistant’s skills can help learners keep up.
The importance of an inclusive classroom
SEND learners can be challenging to teach, but they bring many positive qualities. Strengths can include: creativity, energy, enthusiasm, and a desire to learn. Look for ways to allow neurodivergent learners to shine in front of the class. Creating an inclusive classroom will help them achieve better academic outcomes.
Most teachers will encounter SEND learners in mainstream settings. Don’t limit your expectations because of a label. Believe in the potential of your SEND pupils and encourage them to achieve their best.
Contact Teaching Personnel today to enhance the special educational support in your school. We connect schools with dedicated educators who understand and advocate for SEND provision.
Sign up to posts
Related jobs
Salary
Market related
Location free text
Ipswich
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£40,000 - £49,999
Sector
Maths
Location
Suffolk
Description
2nd in Maths – Ipswich, SuffolkAre you an experienced Maths teacher ready to take the next step in your career? Do you have the drive to support the development of a thriving Maths department? If so,
Reference
ALTCA2
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Permanent StaffingAuthor
Permanent StaffingSalary
£140 - 180 per day
Location free text
Manchester
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£100 - £199 per day
Sector
SEN General
Location
Manchester
Description
Are you looking for a full-time teaching role? Teaching Personnel are currently looking for Teachers in Manchester that have previous experience and are looking to work in specialist SEN schools.For t
Reference
198SENTchmanFT
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Manchester East SENAuthor
Manchester East SENSalary
£120 - 200 per day
Location free text
Liverpool
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£100 - £199 per day
Sector
Other
Location
Liverpool
Description
Head of Sixth Form –Secondary School – South LiverpoolAre you a passionate and experienced leader ready to inspire the next generation of post-16 students?Teaching Personnel is delighted to be working
Reference
Headof6thSept25
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Liverpool BranchAuthor
Liverpool BranchSalary
£140 - 180 per day
Location free text
Stockport
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£100 - £199 per day
Sector
SEMH
Location
Stockport
Description
A secondary pupil referral unit in Stockport are looking for a full-time teacher to take on a position in which multiple subjects will need to be taught. The students are aged 11-16 and are all curren
Reference
198SECPRUTCHSTOCK1
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Manchester East SENAuthor
Manchester East SENSalary
£140 - 180 per day
Location free text
Stockport
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£100 - £199 per day
Sector
SEMH
Location
Stockport
Description
An SEMH provision in Stockport is currently looking for a teacher to start in a full-time position. The school is small and works with children who are currently outside of mainstream schooling due to
Reference
198SEMHTCHSTOCK
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Manchester East SENAuthor
Manchester East SENSalary
£30k - 47k per year
Location free text
Rochdale
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£30,000 - £39,999
£40,000 - £49,999
Sector
English
Location
Rochdale
Description
Are You an Enthusiastic and Dedicated English Teacher? ✨Looking for a role with an immediate, April, or September start? We have exciting opportunities available across secondary schools in the Oldham
Reference
2143546357468579689
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Manchester North SecondaryAuthor
Manchester North SecondarySalary
Market related
Location free text
Ipswich
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£30,000 - £39,999
Sector
Teaching Assistant
Location
Suffolk
Description
Learning Support Assistant – Ipswich, SuffolkAre you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of young people? Do you have experience working with students with additional learning needs
Reference
ALTCA1
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Permanent StaffingAuthor
Permanent StaffingSalary
£140 - 250 per day
Location free text
Kingston upon Thames
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£100 - £199 per day
£200 - £299 per day
Sector
Maths
Location
Kingston-upon-Thames
Description
Job Advertisement: Cover Maths Teacher – Kingston Secondary School (1-Month Contract)Position: Cover Maths Teacher (Key Stages 3 & 4) Location: Kingston upon Thames, Surrey Contract: Full-time, 1-mont
Reference
Kingston Sec - Maths
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Wimbledon BranchAuthor
Wimbledon BranchSalary
£151 - 256 per day
Location free text
Liverpool
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£100 - £199 per day
£200 - £299 per day
Sector
English
Location
Liverpool
Description
Assistant Head of English – Lead, Inspire & Make a Difference!Location: South Liverpool Start Date: September 2025 Salary: Competitive, based on experienceAre you an ambitious and passionate English t
Reference
EnglishSept25
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Liverpool BranchAuthor
Liverpool BranchSalary
£140 - 250 per day
Location free text
Croydon
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£100 - £199 per day
£200 - £299 per day
Sector
English
Location
Croydon
Description
Job Advertisement: Secondary School English Teacher (Long-Term Position) Location: Croydon, UK Start Date: ASAP or September 2024 Contract Type: Long-Term (Potential for Permanent) Salary: Competitive
Reference
Sec Eng Croydon
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Wimbledon BranchAuthor
Wimbledon BranchRelated posts

Teaser
Tips and AdviceContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD03YY
Summary
The True Worth of Professional Exam Invigilation When schools and colleges across England and Wales prepare for examination periods, the pressure to maintain JCQ compliance while ensuring fair ass
by
Zuzana Vrtalova

Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD03YY
Summary
With the Easter break and end of term coming up, it’s time to get your payroll sorted! Our Payroll team has outlined the key dates you need to ensure you receive your pay on time. Check out the ta
by
Zuzana Vrtalova

Teaser
Special Educational NeedsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD03YY
Summary
The landscape of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is transforming. The number of pupils in the UK with special educational needs (SEN) has increased over the last five years. Toda
by
Adam Davies

Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD02YY
Summary
As Spring approaches, it's a critical date for many teachers in the UK who may be contemplating their professional future ahead of the February 28th resignation deadline. While teaching remains on
by
Adam Davies

Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD02YY
Summary
Teaching assistants support teachers and students in the classroom. The role is invaluable and continues to grow in importance as school environments become larger and more diverse. In fact, teach
by
West Yorkshire Primary

Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD01YY
Summary
When you worked as a teacher, you may have looked forward to retirement, as it meant having more time for leisurely activities or spending more time with loved ones. However, the novelty of retire

by
Scott Owen
.jpg)
Teaser
Tips and AdviceContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD01YY
Summary
In the last three years, the likelihood of young people having mental health problems has increased by 50%. According to a report by The Health Foundation, one in six children aged six to 16 in Englan

by
Scott Owen

Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD12YY
Summary
Recent reports state that special schools are seeing a decrease in enrollment. Many local authorities aim to integrate more children with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND) into mainst
by
Adam Davies
.jpg)
Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD12YY
Summary
The festive season and the end of term are quickly approaching! To help you prepare, our Payroll team has shared all the essential dates you need to ensure you get paid before Christmas. Check out t
by
Zuzana Vrtalova
.jpg)
Teaser
NurseryContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD11YY
Summary
The government has announced new nursery funding and the introduction of free before-school breakfast clubs. These initiatives will bring change to early education. Yet staffing them will be a c
by
Zuzana Vrtalova
Register with us
for work in schools across England & Wales
Register today
Recent job