special school: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Formal, Educational/Institutional
Quick answer
What does “special school” mean?
A school specifically designed to educate children with physical disabilities, learning difficulties, or behavioral and emotional needs.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A school specifically designed to educate children with physical disabilities, learning difficulties, or behavioral and emotional needs.
An educational institution providing tailored curricula, specialized facilities, and trained staff to meet the particular requirements of students who cannot be adequately served in a mainstream educational environment. Can sometimes refer to schools for gifted students, though this is less common.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, 'special school' is a standard, official term within the education system. In the US, the term 'special education school' is more common, or more specific terms like 'school for students with disabilities' are used. The phrase 'special school' is understood but less frequent in American institutional language.
Connotations
In both varieties, the term carries a formal, bureaucratic connotation. In the UK, it is a neutral category. In the US, it may sound slightly dated or overly broad compared to more specific terminology.
Frequency
Higher frequency in UK English within educational policy, parent discussions, and local authority communications. Lower frequency in US English, where terminology is more varied and region-specific.
Grammar
How to Use “special school” in a Sentence
[Child/Student] + [verb: attend/go to] + special school[Local Authority/Government] + [verb: fund/maintain] + special school[Special school] + [verb: cater to/serve] + [group of pupils]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “special school” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The local authority reviewed its special-school provision.
- He has special-school experience.
American English
- The district's special-education school policy was updated.
- She sought special-school placement for her child.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in contexts related to construction, supply, or services for the education sector.
Academic
Common in educational research, policy papers, sociology of education, and psychology journals discussing inclusive/exclusive education models.
Everyday
Used by parents, teachers, and professionals when discussing educational options and placements for children with additional needs.
Technical
A formal term in educational law, policy documents, and local government administration for a specific type of educational institution.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “special school”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “special school”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “special school”
- Using 'special school' as a synonym for a 'private school' or a 'specialist school' (e.g., for arts).
- Using the adjective 'special' pejoratively when referring to the school or its students.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The term itself is the standard administrative and legal term in many countries, like the UK. However, some individuals and groups within the disability rights movement prefer person-first or identity-first language (e.g., 'school for disabled students'). Sensitivity depends on context and local preference.
A special school is a separate institution dedicated entirely to students with special educational needs. A mainstream school with a special unit is a regular school that contains a dedicated department or class for such students, often allowing for some integration with the wider school community.
This varies by country. In England, for example, special schools are required to provide a broad and balanced curriculum, but it is often highly adapted and personalized to meet the pupils' Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), and they may not follow the national curriculum in its standard form.
Yes, this is possible and is often a goal. The transition depends on the child's progress, the availability of appropriate support in the mainstream setting, and regular reviews of their educational needs. Successful reintegration requires careful planning and support.
A school specifically designed to educate children with physical disabilities, learning difficulties, or behavioral and emotional needs.
Special school is usually formal, educational/institutional in register.
Special school: in British English it is pronounced /ˌspeʃ.əl ˈskuːl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌspeʃ.əl ˈskuːl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'special' key for a 'special' lock. A 'special school' is designed with a unique key (curriculum and environment) to unlock the potential of students with specific needs.
Conceptual Metaphor
EDUCATION IS A TAILORED SUIT. A special school is a bespoke suit, cut and stitched to fit the individual precisely, unlike the off-the-rack option of a mainstream school.
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is the term 'special school' most commonly used as a standard administrative term?