ARTICLE
How Can You Use AI Tools to Support SEND & Inclusion?
Not every student learns the same way, and for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), that’s especially true. Whether it’s navigating anxiety, processing written information, or needing a little extra support staying focused, SEND students thrive in environments that understand and adapt. Based on opinions from experts AI tools are stepping into this space. Some deliver and some, not so much. This article explores how AI can support SEND and inclusion, and why the real game-changer is having staff who know how to use it with care.
September 09, 2025
What Can AI Really Do?
There’s a lot of buzz around AI in education. Some of its
hype, but when used right, certain tools can genuinely improve the classroom experience
for SEND students.
Personalised Learning
AI excels at adapting to individual needs, when it’s done thoughtfully. Platforms that use adaptive algorithms can tailor content to match a student’s pace and ability level. For SEND pupils, this can mean fewer moments of feeling left behind and more opportunities to succeed on their terms.
Tools available, for all:
- Century Tech: Combines learning science and AI to personalise learning paths.
- SENeca Learning: Uses AI to adjust question difficulty based on student responses.
- Google Classroom with AI extensions: Teachers can plug in tools like Diffit to instantly simplify, scaffold, or translate content.
Speech-to-Text & Text-to-Speech
This one’s not new, but it’s powerful. For students with
processing difficulties or dyslexia, speech-to-text tools allow them to express
ideas without the hurdle of handwriting or spelling. Text-to-speech, meanwhile,
gives them access to content in a way that’s less mentally exhausting.
Tools to try:
- Microsoft Immersive Reader: A free tool that reads aloud text, breaks words into syllables, and offers translation support.
- Google Docs Voice Typing: Free tool built into Google Docs when using the Chrome browser; real-time speech-to-text transcription.
- Read&Write by Texthelp: A toolbar that supports students with reading, writing, and comprehension needs.
These tools can help students work more independently, so
that they’re not waiting on adult intervention, and gain more autonomy.
Reducing Anxiety
For students with autism, ADHD or anxiety disorders,
AI-powered virtual assistants or chatbots can offer low-pressure support. They
can answer questions, guide students through routines, or provide reminders, without
the social stress of having to ask a teacher (again).
Tools to try:
- Replika: AI companion that offer friendly, low-stakes interaction. While not school-specific,
they’re helpful for social confidence-building.
- Woebot: A mental health
chatbot that uses cognitive behavioural techniques to help students manage
anxiety.
- Along (by Gradient Learning + Chan
Zuckerberg Initiative): AI-assisted check-ins that suggest
questions and track emotional data to help teachers build stronger student
relationships.
Of course, no robot replaces a good TA, but they can be a
useful, extra layer of help.
Want to Make Tech Work for SEND?
Whether you’re just starting your inclusion journey or
looking to enhance your team’s capability/knowledge in supporting SEND
Students, your use of educational tech, it all starts with having the right
team in place.
Let us help you find SEND-aware staff who know how to use
tech with care and impact.
Disclaimer: Mention of any company or service in this article is for informational purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the jjFOX.
