Any serious attempt to clarify the complex area of special educational needs will require more than the simplistic proposals currently on offer (“A step change in SEN education”, TESpro, 1 February). A detailed definition of SEN must include the clinical component of learning disability. Complex needs require a collaborative and consistent combination of specialist services. If statutory pressure is not exerted and NHS Trust resources reduce, so too will the trust’s inclination to provide essential support such as speech and language therapy.

Ron Babbage, Headteacher, St John’s Special School and College, Bedford.