ABSTRACT
The concept of special educational needs is invoked at the point at which circumstances are deemed to show that the mainstream provision of a school can no longer adequately provide for a given situation. Extra or alternative resources, human or material, are required to meet such needs. The concept as defined in this country since 1981 is generous. Young people are organised into groups according to criteria decided upon by the staff. Discipline is reinforced with a system of sanctions and controls. Increasing political control of public education ensures that it responds to the economic needs of the country. The crisis management model is by far the commonest. Its message is simple. Standardise as far as a person reasonably can and make appropriate provision for deviation. Children growing up in this area experience learning difficulties associated with social and economic factors external to themselves.
