* Cognitive: Difficulties with processing information, memory, attention, problem-solving, or executive functioning. This could include conditions like dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities.
* Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH): Challenges related to emotional regulation, social interaction, anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions that significantly impact learning.
* Communication and Language: Difficulties with understanding or expressing language, including speech, reading, writing, or understanding verbal or written instructions. This could include conditions like speech and language disorders or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
* Sensory and/or Physical: Impairments in vision, hearing, physical mobility, or other sensory processing that impact learning. This could include visual impairments, hearing impairments, or physical disabilities.
* Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD): These are neurodevelopmental disorders that primarily affect specific cognitive processes involved in learning, such as dyslexia (reading), dysgraphia (writing), and dyscalculia (mathematics).
Key characteristics of ALN are that they:
* Require additional support: Learners with ALN often need individualized instruction, specialized teaching strategies, assistive technologies, or other support to make progress.
* Are significant and persistent: The needs are not temporary or easily overcome through typical teaching methods.
* Impact learning: The needs create barriers to learning and participation in the educational environment.
It's important to note that ALN is not a label to define a child but rather a description of the support they need. The specific needs and support required will vary greatly depending on the individual learner. The focus should always be on identifying the individual's strengths and challenges and tailoring the support to their unique needs, allowing them to reach their full potential.