Service Description: Children with special educational needs have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn than most children of the same age. These children may need extra or different help from that given to other children of the same age. An assessment of special educational needs (SEN) may be considered when a child has severe or complex educational needs for which additional resources, or alternative provision may be required to meet their needs. Once the assessment has been completed the child may be eligible for a special educational needs statement offered by the local authority. This sets out the special educational needs of the child and the special help they should have at school.
Also known as:- Assessment, SEN, SEN Admissions, Special Needs, Statement, Sure Start, Surestart
Answer: You have the right to request a statutory assessment of your child’s special educational needs. In order to do this you would need to write to your local education authority (LEA) with this request. However, we would always advise that you discuss this with your child’s school before doing so; the Parent Partnership Service can also offer advice on this. They can be contacted on 01983 825548 or via email [email protected] .