Identification
Indicators of needs which may require more targeted support include:
- The adjustments made through quality first teaching have not resulted in adequate progress.
- The development of the young person’s SEMH is a barrier to developmental progress
- Parents have raised concerns regarding the presentation of the young person in other contexts despite difficulties not being apparent in school.
- The young person’s attendance at school has reduced
- The young person is at risk of exclusion
- The young person is displaying behaviour which could be associated with unmet SEMH including:
- signs of emotional distress
- displaying behaviour that has disruptive effects
- ongoing friendship issues
- conflict with peers and adults
- reports of bullying,
- withdrawal behaviour
- any significant changes in behaviour
- physical symptoms
- self-harm
- anxiety
It is important that any behaviour causing concern is understood as an indication of an underlying unmet social, emotional or mental health need and addressed accordingly. Challenging behaviour may also be caused by underlying language, communication or learning needs. In these cases, please refer to the Learning and Cognition and Communication and Interaction sections for more information.
Be aware that a significant number of young people mask their SEMH needs within the school environment. Parental reports of emotional distress at home need to be responded to with careful consideration how the school context may be impacting upon this distress.