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What to do if you suspect that your child has Special Educational Needs (SEN )

Around 1 in 5 pupils will experience some form of special educational need during their school years. For most children, schools can meet these needs through additional support. A small percentage (about 2%) may require an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP).

School Children

Special Educational Needs (SEN) refer to learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for children to learn or access education compared to most children of the same age.

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According to the Children and Families Act 2014, a child has SEN if:

 

  • They have significantly greater difficulty learning than others of the same age, or

  • They have a disability that prevents or hinders them from accessing standard educational facilities.​

 

For children under two, special educational provision refers to any type of additional educational support.

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Please note: A child whose first language is not English is not automatically considered to have SEN.

Steps you can take

1.

Talk to your Child's School

The best place to start is by speaking with your child’s teacher. Here are some questions to guide your conversation:

 

Does the teacher notice any difficulties?

Is your child receiving extra help?

Are they working at the same level as their classmates?

Have they undergone any assessments or tests?

How can you support your child at home?

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Share your concerns, including specific examples, and ask for copies of relevant school policies, records, and progress reports.

 

If necessary, request a formal meeting to discuss your concerns in more detail.

2.

Collect Information

Start keeping a record of any important documents or notes about your child.

 

Create a file - Save emails, school reports, and letters in chronological order.

 

Keep a diary - Note changes in behaviour, education, or health, along with any patterns or triggers.

3.

Talk to Health Professionals

If you think there may be an underlying medical or developmental issue, speak to your GP. They can provide advice or refer you to specialist services.

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Further Resources

For more information about SEN and how to get support:

Visit the Shropshire Local Offer

Access the SEND Code of Practice

Next steps if you're unsatisfied

If you’ve met with the school but still feel your concerns aren’t being addressed:

  • Speak to the class teacher, SENCO, or Headteacher again.

  • Contact Shropshire Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS) for independent, impartial advice and support.

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