More families are seeking assessments for special educational needs. Understanding the process helps parents get timely, appropriate support for their child.
Signs a child may need extra support
- Persistent difficulty with reading, writing or number despite practice
- Struggles with attention, organisation or memory
- Social, emotional or communication difficulties
- Big differences between ability in conversation and in written work
Where to start
Speak to your child's class teacher or the school's SENCo (special educational needs co-ordinator). They can explain the support available in school and the next steps if a more formal assessment is needed.
Support while you wait
Assessments can take time. Patient, structured teaching in small steps — at school and at home — can help a child keep making progress in the meantime.