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: If you have any worries or concerns, you should speak to your child’s school straight away. The school can help your child through School Action or School Action Plus. For an explanation of School Action and School Action Plus – see separate FAQ. If your child does not make progress with this help then the school can make a request to the local education authority to commence a statutory assessment of the child’s special educational needs.