Enhancing wellbeing and social skills for SEN pupils

Several Erasmus+ and European Innovative Teaching Award (EITA)-winning projects have made significant efforts to address the social, emotional and academic wellbeing of SEN pupils. This article explores some of these key initiatives that focus on wellbeing, social and life skills, neurodiversity and innovative teaching approaches.

Emotional wellbeing and social integration for all

A core component of SEN education is promoting emotional wellbeing and social inclusion. These projects emphasise the importance of social interaction and education about emotions and relationships.

Safe & Happy in Society (SaHaSo) focuses on relationships, emotional life and sexuality for young people with mental disabilities and offers a comprehensive handbook to help carers and social workers support SEN pupils in forming meaningful relationships. It goes beyond the classroom, creating opportunities for pupils to build social networks in a safe and supportive environment.

Similarly, the Every Move Counts project links physical activity with mental and emotional wellbeing by engaging pupils aged 13–16 in sport and promoting positive lifestyle choices. It includes pupils with SEN at every school. It takes a well-rounded approach that boosts pupils' confidence and encourages peer interaction (an essential factor for SEN pupils, who are often marginalised in traditional school settings).

Creating a positive learning environment

Inclusion is at the heart of a positive school climate, ensuring all pupils feel that they belong, regardless of their abilities. European projects can champion the development of inclusive, pupil-centred learning environments.

Adapted Kindergarten Services takes this approach further by focusing on early childhood education, promoting inclusive practices in nurseries and primary schools. It supports creating a nurturing environment where every pupil, particularly those with additional needs, can succeed.

By integrating classroom work with life outside of school, Greater Success when learning in happiness focuses on fostering a sense of equality and self-worth, with an emphasis on mental health, collaboration and emotional wellbeing. Parents and teachers help to spread the message of inclusivity through practical knowledge-sharing.

Building resilience and preparing pupils for the future

Developing resilience in SEN pupils is vital for their personal and academic growth. The Resilience: "I Can Do It!" project focuses on teaching resilience as part of the curriculum for pupils with special needs. By integrating art into the learning process, it helps pupils express themselves, develop coping strategies and prepare for future challenges. The project also addresses teacher resilience, recognising that a supportive, well-trained teaching workforce is key to fostering resilient pupils.

On a similar note, the European Opportunities for Hospitality Special Needs Students project seeks to boost the self-esteem and social skills of SEN pupils aged 18-24 by providing them with real-world experiences through internships, applying their skills in a professional setting to gain confidence and valuable work experience. This approach underlines the importance of practical life skills and employment readiness in SEN education, helping pupils to transition smoothly into adult life.

Innovative approaches to SEN education

Innovation is a driving force behind improving SEN education. Harnessing digital tools and new technologies to support pupils with specific learning needs ensures that SEN pupils are not left behind in the digital age and provides them with the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.

The  Solution4SLD project offers an interactive e-platform for pupils with specific learning disabilities, providing tailored digital content that enhances psychological and academic wellbeing. The platform empowers teachers and pupils by adapting lessons to their individual needs.

Similarly, Integrating Special Needs Individuals into Digi-Holistic Education integrates ICT and digital competencies into SEN education, equipping SEN pupils, staff, and specialists with the tools to create digital content, fostering adaptability and social skills.

These initiatives collectively emphasise the importance of emotional wellbeing, social skills development, resilience and innovative approaches to SEN education. By connecting different types of SEN support, they emphasise the value of a multidisciplinary, inclusive approach to education.