Inspire, model and strengthen your SEND principles using proven Scandinavian approaches
Transform the way your school or setting understands and supports SEND learners with this concise, research-informed CPD handout. Drawing on the highly respected education practices of Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland, this resource highlights the core principles that make Scandinavian SEND provision some of the most successful and inclusive in the world.
This handout explains—clearly and practically—what Scandinavian countries do exceptionally well, including:
Child-centred, holistic approaches
Outdoor learning and nature-based regulation
Universal design for learning (UDL) principles
Low-stress, low-pressure environments
High levels of trust, autonomy and relationship-building
Inclusive early intervention and teamwork-focused SEND support
You’ll discover why these approaches work and how they help children thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
How to Use This Handout in Your School or Setting
This CPD resource is designed to be immediately actionable. Staff can use it to:
✔ Review and strengthen your SEND philosophy
Reflect on whether current practice aligns with what research shows is most effective — calmness, consistency, inclusion and child-led learning.
✔ Develop a more Scandinavian-informed SEND model
Use the principles to shape whole-school SEND improvements, such as:
nurturing, play-based early interventions
sensory-friendly environments
outdoor learning for regulation and engagement
collaborative planning between teachers, SENDCOs and support staff
reducing unnecessary academic pressure
✔ Audit your environment and routines
Identify areas where you can reduce overstimulation, increase independence, and improve accessibility for all pupils.
✔ Support staff development and training
Perfect for INSET days, teacher CPD, SEND team meetings or staff-room reference.
✔ Guide inclusive teaching
Learn simple, practical ways to apply Scandinavian techniques in:
classroom layout
daily routines
communication strategies
outdoor provision
SEND interventions and supports
Who This CPD Handout Is For
Primary teachers
Early years practitioners
SENDCOs and ALNCOs
Teaching assistants
School leaders
Outdoor learning leads
Inclusion teams
Childcare and nursery settings
Whether you want to refresh your SEND culture, create a calmer learning environment, or adopt more nature-based support strategies, this handout provides a clear, evidence-informed foundation.
Why This Resource Stands Out
Rather than a long, overwhelming document, this handout gives staff:
the key ideas, not the jargon
simple steps to put into practice immediately
international insight you can adapt to your own setting
a lens to rethink how you care for and teach children with diverse needs
Empowering, practical and inspiring — it’s the perfect starting point for schools wanting to model a more nurturing, Scandinavian-style SEND approach.
