Develop a detailed understanding of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including equality and diversity in the context of SEND and legislation and guidance that helps promote this. You will also look at how a person-centred approach can benefit individuals living with SEND, how SEND conditions can affect learning and how to support those living with SEND and their families.


Meet our students Elizabeth Lefever

Elizabeth Lefever

I’ve always wanted to work in the childcare industry and chose this course as the best option to further my career. I like the fact that I have work placements in nurseries and schools to get more experience and become more confident. The support staff and teachers are happy to help and full of encouragement.

Child Care

Meet our students Laura Pearce

Laura Pearce

As a teaching assistant, I find the course extremely relevant to my job. The course has taught me a lot about children’s learning development, and I’m applying what I’ve learnt so far within my role at the school where I work. Studying for a degree in Newbury is an advantage to me. I was thrilled that UCN’s partnership with the University of Reading made this possible for me. More...

Foundation Degree in Children's Development and Learning

  • Description

    The Special Educational Needs and Disability programme includes five mandatory units:

    • Unit 1: Introduction to Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND)
    • Unit 2: Understanding equality and diversity in the context of SEND
    • Unit 3: Principles of promoting a person-centred approach for individuals with SEND
    • Unit 4: Understanding SEND and learning
    • Unit 5: Living with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities SEND

    Study Online courses allow you to complete your study from the comfort of your own home, in your own time. A specialist tutor will be assigned to you for the duration of your course and will provide individual support and guidance.

    The course begins with an initial induction phone call, after which you will be issued access to the online learning platform to start your course. Regular access to a computer and a stable internet connection is essential. Public areas such as your local library can allow you access to a computer and internet, should you not have access to your own.

  • Entry Requirements

    This is an online course for adults aged 19+ and funding is based on your location. You can apply if you are aged 19+ and have lived in the UK for the last three years. Ages 19 to 23: you are eligible for free courses if you have already achieved a full Level 2 qualification or equivalent (5 or more GCSEs at grade 9/A* to 4/C) Ages 24+: Our Level 2 Study Online programmes are free to UK Nationals regardless of previous qualifications.

    A basic level of numeracy and literacy is required with general computer skills to for navigating the Online Learning Platform.

  • Qualification

    TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Special Educational Needs and Disability

  • Progression

    Further opportunities to develop your learning and skills in the sector include, Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health Awareness, Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities, Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism and Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Children and Young Peoples Mental Health.

  • Assessment

    You will complete an assessment at the end of each module/unit. These assessments are tutor marked, internally moderated and then moderated by the awarding body.

  • Home Study

    Study will be home-based and at your discretion within the timeframe stipulated by tutor.

  • Work Placement

    You do not have to work in this sector to complete the course.

  • Fees and Additional Costs

    Our Level 2 Study Online programmes are available for FREE to UK nationals aged 19 and over. Subject to meeting the entry and funding criteria.

Code Day Start End Times Fees*
TQ/SEND 232401 Flexible Start - £0

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* Terms and conditions apply. The fees stated on this website are for guidance purposes only and should be checked before enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, fees shown are for tuition only, over one academic year. Where a course is longer than one academic year, the fees stated are for the first year, and the cost of the second or subsequent years will be discussed at interview. For details of fee remission for students over 19 click here. If you think you may be entitled to a concession or fee remission, or you would like more information on the additional costs associated with your chosen course, please contact us on 01635 845000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..