SEN stands for Special Educational Needs.

It refers to children who have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn compared to most children of the same age. These children may need special support in school, home, or therapy settings to help them reach their full potential.

special educational needs (SEN)
What is Special Educational Needs (SEN)?

The common categories of SEN include the following: 

CategoryExamples
Learning DisabilitiesDyslexia, dyscalculia, slow learners
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)Communication, behavior, sensory challenges
ADHDAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Speech & Language DisordersSpeech delay, stuttering, articulation
Intellectual DisabilitiesDown syndrome, global developmental delay
Physical DisabilitiesCerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy
Visual/Hearing ImpairmentsBlindness, deafness
Multiple DisabilitiesCombinations (e.g., autism + physical disability)
Children solving stacking blocks game together

In Malaysia, the Ministry of Education (MOE) classifies SEN students for placement in:

  • Special Education Integrated Programmes (SEIP) in mainstream schools.
  • Special Education Schools (SES) — separate government-run schools.
  • Inclusive Education Programs — where SEN students learn alongside neurotypical peers with support.