Severe Intellectual Disability
Directorate: Inclusive and Specialised Education Support

What is Severe Intellectual Disability (SID)?

A learner who experiences an intellectual barrier to learning which refers to their general mental capacity such as: learning, reasoning, problem solving, memory, thinking, etc.

This includes significant limitations in their adaptive functioning which comprises of three skill sets:

  • Conceptual skills: have difficulty with language & literacy, money, time and other number concepts as well as self-direction, etc.
  • Social skills: have challenge with interpersonal & social skills, self-esteem, guilibility, social problem solving, ability to follow rules, etc.
  • Practical skills: have difficulty with activities of daily living (ADL), personal care/ hygiene, occupational skills, travel/ transportation, following schedules/ routine, saftey, use of money, etc.

Signs of Intellectual Disability

Sit up, crawl, or walk later than other children.
Learn to talk later, or have trouble speaking.
Find it hard to remember things.
Not understand how to pay for things
Have trouble understanding social rules.
Have trouble seeing the consequences of their actions.
Have trouble solving problems.
Have trouble thinking logically.
Profile image of Mr. Dheena Achary

Dheena Achary
Programme Manager

Dheena.achary@westerncape.gov.za 021 467 2122

SID schools offer support to learners who are Severe Intellectually Disabled. Learners between 6 to 12 years of age are admitted after a stringent screening and assessment process.

SID Links to Support You

Resources and information to better support you on your SID journey.

Policies and Guidelines

Remain informed and compliant with our policies and guidelines.

Learn More

Schools and Admissions

SID schools offer support to learners who are Severe Intellectually Disabled. Learners between 6 to 12 years of age are admitted after a stringent screening and assessment process.

Learn More

Parent Support

Explore this hub of educational, valuable insights, tips, and guidance on nurturing your child's development.

Learn More
Profile image of Mr. Dheena Achary

Curriculum and Therapeutic Support

Unlock the keys to success in both the classroom and the mind! With curriculum support, educators receive a treasure trove of resources, tools, and guidance to supercharge their teaching game, ensuring high-quality instruction and paving the way for student triumph. Meanwhile, therapy support serves as your mental health superhero, swooping in to tackle challenges head-on, boosting resilience, and fostering personal growth. Together, let's build brighter futures, one resource at a time!

Academic Core Subjects Skills Electives Therapeutic Support