Professionals: SENCO Toolkit

Quick links, templates and guides to help schools and families work in partnership.

How Sendiass supports schools

SENDIASS provides impartial information, advice and support about SEND processes across education, health and social care. Our role is to help families and young people understand processes and prepare for constructive conversations with school. We don’t make decisions for schools or the local authority: we help everyone understand options, roles and next steps.

We can provide general guidance to professionals. For advice about an individual child/young person, we usually need parent/carer consent.

Myth vs Reality

Myth: “If a parent contacts SENDIASS it means escalation/complaint.”
Reality: Many families contact us for clarity and reassurance. Better understanding often improves meetings and reduces conflict.

Myth: “SENDIASS takes sides.”
Reality: We are impartial and provide information based on SEND law and guidance.

Myth: “SENDIASS tells parents what schools must do.”
Reality: We don’t make decisions. We explain processes, roles and options so families can engage effectively with school.

What happens when a family contacts SENDIASS?

1.

We listen and clarify the family’s questions and desired outcomes.

2.

We explain relevant SEND processes (e.g., SEN Support/EHCP pathways) and typical steps.

3.

We help them prepare for meetings (what to expect, useful questions, how to share views).

4.

We encourage solution‑focused communication and early resolution wherever possible.

What we can/can't do

We can:

Provide impartial information on SEND processes, rights and options.
Help families/young people prepare for meetings and reviews.
Share resources and signpost to services.

We can't:

Make decisions for the local authority or schools.
Replace school processes or communicate on behalf of school.
Provide case-specific advice without appropriate consent

Resource Bundle Pack

Download our FREE resource bundle for schools. Includes printable and digital posters for display; QR codes for newsletters; an easy read explanation for parents and information about our outreach offers.

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