Supporting the SEMH needs of learners with SEND

Further education

Guidance for FE and skills staff on supporting the social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs of learners with learning difficulties and disabilities, with practical strategies, examples and tools drawn from specialist practice.

Last reviewed: 29 October 2025

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This resource belongs to the resource hub for a whole-school or college approach.

  • Author The Education and Training Foundation
  • Whole-school or college approach principles Key
    8 Targeted support
    Supporting
    • 1 Leadership and management
    • 2 School ethos and environment
    • 3 Curriculum, teaching and learning
  • Estimated read time
    30 mins

About this resource

This resource provides guidance for FE and skills staff on supporting the SEMH needs of learners with SEND. It outlines the challenges learners may face, such as anxiety, low self-esteem and difficulties with transitions, and highlights practical ways staff and managers can help learners succeed. 

The guidance draws on practice from specialist FE colleges and is structured around three themes:  

  • personalised support 

  • mentally healthy curriculum 

  • planning for positive mental health.  

Each section provides practical frameworks and examples, such as behaviour support planning and curriculum activities that promote wellbeing. 

At its core, the resource emphasises person-centred approaches and safeguarding, with a focus on creating environments where learners feel valued and able to thrive. 
 

Using this resource

This resource is designed for:  

  • FE and skills staff supporting the SEMH needs of learners with SEND 

  • FE managers and leaders responsible for SEND provision.

Learning outcomes

This resource addresses the following learning outcomes: 

  • Identify and access the most appropriate statutory or independent mental health service provision available in their local area. 

  • Make or support effective referrals to children and young people’s or adult mental health services, or other services as appropriate. 

Download resource Save resource page

This resource belongs to the resource hub for a whole-school or college approach.

  • Author The Education and Training Foundation
  • Whole-school or college approach principles Key
    8 Targeted support
    Supporting
    • 1 Leadership and management
    • 2 School ethos and environment
    • 3 Curriculum, teaching and learning
  • Estimated read time
    30 mins

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