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Open Change SEND acronym to ‘SPECIFIC Educational Needs' in government publications

Created by OLIVIA RAE CLARKE WILSON GARRETT
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We want change. The word ‘Special’ has had negative connotations for the last 40 years, so why should we continue using this derogatory term for young adults and children in this day and age? Why not change this to ‘Specific’ a term that is individual and tailored to each student?

As someone who is undertaking a University degree in Education and as someone who has familial links to people with ‘Specific’ Educational needs, something needs to change. I find it difficult to become a teacher in an educational system in which we are still calling children and young adults ‘Special’ for requiring Specific educational needs. This petition asks you to consider those children. In addition, why change an already established name. SEND but change the S from ‘SPECIAL’ to SPECIFIC

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    This petition will stay open until 27 November 2026.