Medical needs

0-5

• significant physical difficulties. May have impaired mobility and or communication
• poor muscle tone or muscle strength, not stable when walking after two years old
• child has a long-term medical condition that impacts on their ability to access daily life, including on their communication, understanding or learning
• their medical needs require a significant level of therapy or medical intervention
• child has great difficulties tying shoelaces, doing up buttons and zips, using cutlery, and handwriting
• very restricted diet resulting from sensory preferences
• a diagnosed established medical condition which is controlled through regular intervention or not yet fully controlled 
• medication may be required during the day
• attendance affected because of ill health or medical needs
• periods of hospitalisation required 

5-16

The pupil has a moderate motor impairment (disordered motor skills) which significantly impairs their ability to participate in many aspects of school and social life and leisure activities. The pupil’s needs are met through a combination of approaches which include small group interventions and 1:1 individualised support (in and out of the classroom). The interventions, support and adaptations in place follow advice or support from NHS professionals as appropriate.

• student has severe difficulties with the ability to function independently in the school environment and in their everyday life
• physical difficulties with eating or drinking
• may require daily therapy and medical intervention to crucially avoid pressure damage and maintain joint integrity
• may show signs of fatigue during the school day, which may impact on their attendance or engagement at school
• may have a medical condition that is increasingly difficult to manage and experiencing considerable pain and disruption to their ability to focus.
• may be independently mobile, have an abnormal walking pattern, slower than peers at walking, need an aid to support walking, or may need a wheelchair for longer distances due to fatigue 
• may have a chronic condition, potential degenerative condition, newly acquired condition or has special educational needs in addition to physical difficulties
• they have difficulties resulting from a medical condition in communicating, addressing self-care needs, moving independently, managing a medical condition (including self-managing when appropriate)
• may need an adapted school chair. For example, Fox Denton, Movin’ Sit cushion 
• may wear splints on leg(s) or arm, hand or both 
• their ongoing medical needs restricts their confidence and resilience and may result   in poor attendance

Cerebral Palsy GMFCS level 2 

• can climb stairs with a railing 
• has difficulty with uneven surfaces inclines or in crowds
• has only minimal ability to run or jump 

Cerebral Palsy GMFCS level 3 

• walks with assistive mobility devices indoors and outdoors on level surfaces 
• may be able to climb stairs using a railing 
• may propel a manual wheelchair and need assistance for long distances or uneven surfaces 

Cerebral Palsy MACS level 3 III.

• handles objects with difficulty; needs help to prepare or modify activities 
• the performance is slow and achieved with limited success regarding quality and quantity
• activities are performed independently if set up or adapted

Severe Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) 

• movement ABC -2 score <5th percentile
• significant difference between measured level of intelligence and motor performance