Reasonable adjustments for disabled children (2012) Jody, Gabby and Lucille

This legislation came into force as part of the Equality Act 2010 This component of the Equality Act has been in place since September 2012 The legislation was put into place to ensure that reasonable adjustments were put in place within schools to address the need for inclusive practice. For example; appropriate access points so that every child can access their learning environment.

What is an adjustment? In practice this is a setting taking a child’s requirements and fulfilling them in accordance with legislation regarding inclusion. Ensuring the setting is adaptable to a specific need. Adjustments in place ensure that every child achieves their full potential within their learning environment. For example; providing a writing slope for a visually impaired child.

Three key elements: Provisions, criteria and practices; the way a school operates on a daily basis, for example the school uniform policy as adjustments would be made if a child was allergic to a certain material. Auxiliary aids and services; resources adapted to accommodate a specific need, for example providing a step for a child who has restricted growth. Physical features; ensuring the learning environment is accessible to all, for example appropriate labelling of resources within the setting.

Factors to be taken into account; Extent to which support will be provided to the disabled pupil under part 4 of the Education Act 1996 The resources of the school and the availability of financial or other assistance The financial and other costs of making the adjustments The extent to which taking any particular step would be effective in overcoming the disadvantage suffered by a disabled pupil The practicality of the adjustments The need to maintain academic, musical, sporting and other standards The effect of the disability on the individual Health and safety requirements The interests of other pupils and prospective pupils