The WCED's Directorate: Specialised Support Services offers a range of services for learners experiencing barriers to learning. These services include:
- Prevention of learning difficulties.
- Early identification of learning difficulties and early intervention.
- Specialised support services including psychological, therapeutic, health and social services.
- Education programmes for learners with special education needs in both in mainstream schools and in schools for learners with special education needs.
The directorate manages 77 schools in the province for learners with special education needs (ELSEN). ELSEN specialists are also based in the Education Management and Development Centres (EMDCs) in all seven education districts of the Western Cape.