Free Level 2 Special Educational Needs and Disability Course. Study online at your own pace, fitting learning around your existing commitments. This free special educational needs and disability course is open to adults aged 19 or over who hold at least a Level 1 English or Literacy qualification. Over around 110 hours of online study, you'll explore SEND conditions and their causes, relevant legislation, safeguarding, person-centred approaches, neurodiversity, and how educational settings support learners with SEND. This level 2 special educational needs and disability qualification is awarded by TQUK.
Who this course is for
If you are wanting to improve your knowledge and skills of Special Educational Needs and Disability, either for personal or professional development, this course is for you. It will consider many aspects of SEND, looking at the symptoms of specific conditions and how they may affect individuals in their daily life. It will also examine relevant legislation and guidance applicable to individuals with SEND. Throughout the course you will study the following: Unit 1 - Introduction to the Special Educational Needs and Disability, Unit 2 - Understand equality and diversity in the context of SEND, , Unit 3 - Principles of promoting person centred approach of individuals with SEND, unit 4 - Understanding SEND and learning, Unit 5 - Living with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, It has the added benefit of being a nationally recognised Level 2 qualification and demonstrates your competency to employers and can be used to update and continue your professional development, (CPD).
Entry requirements
You will need to be aged be 19+ as at 31st August prior to the start of the current academic year. You will also need to have at least a Level 1 qualification in English/Literacy or equivalent. To assist in completion of this qualification, it may help to be working in, or have access to, the chosen sector. If you already have a higher-level qualification in this specialism, it may impact on your eligibility.
What you will learn
You'll identify a range of SEND conditions, their causes, and how they affect daily life.
You'll examine the social and medical models of disability and how attitudes have changed over time.
You'll explore equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and wider community.
You'll understand safeguarding principles and recognise different types of abuse.
You'll apply person-centred approaches and explain the importance of active participation and well-being.
You'll analyse different learning styles and programmes used in educational settings.
You'll interpret Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans and reasonable adjustments.
You'll investigate neurodiversity, self-identity, and the support available for individuals with SEND and their families.
How you will learn
You study entirely online, working through five units at your own pace. Each unit is divided into sections covering topics such as SEND conditions, legislation, safeguarding, and person-centred practice. Assessment is through online tasks and written assignments completed as you progress through the course. You do not need to attend a classroom or sit a formal exam.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Boston College Skirbeck Road will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
SEN Teaching Assistant: support pupils with special educational needs in school settings.
Teaching Assistant: assist class teachers across primary or secondary schools.
Learning Support Assistant: work one-to-one with students who need additional help.
SEND Support Worker: help individuals with disabilities in community or residential settings.
Early Years Practitioner: support young children with additional needs in nursery or pre-school.
Family Support Worker: help families of children and young people with SEND navigate services.
What you could study next
Level 3 Award or Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning: deepens classroom practice and is a common next step toward a higher-level teaching assistant role.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator: for those working with younger children with additional needs.
Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism: specialist knowledge that complements this SEND qualification and is valued by schools and support services.
