What is a Statutory Assessment?
This is a process carried out by the Local Authority to establish your child's Special Educational Needs. It involves collecting information from a range of professionals who have been working with your child.
Will I be informed about the Statutory Assessment?
Before carrying out the statutory assessment the SENCo from your child's school will discuss this process with you. The Special Educational Needs Section will send you a letter explaining the Statementing process and request your consent and views. Your views will then be considered as part of the assessment process.
What happens at the end of the assessment?
All the information collected on your child is considered by a number of professionals with expertise in Special Educational Needs, they will determine if your child needs a Statement of Special Educational Needs. If the panel decides that your child's needs can be met without the need for a Statement they will provide your child with a Note in Lieu and give the school guidance on how they should meet your child's needs.
How will my child be helped if they do not have a statement?
Not all pupils with Special Educational Needs require Statements in order to have their needs met. Schools make Special Educational Needs provision available for pupils without Statements. They can use different teaching methods appropriate to the level of the child's needs and get expert advice if necessary. These arrangements are known as School Action and School Action Plus.
School Admissions
If the outcome of the Statutory Assessment recommends a change of school you will be contacted by a member of the Special Educational Needs Section and given the opportunity to visit and look round the proposed educational placement.
What can I do if I am not happy with any decisions made?
In the first instance you can contact the Special Educational Needs Section who will be happy to assist and advise. Parents can also contact the Parent Partnership offices at the North East Special Educational Needs Mediation, which is the regional service for sorting out disagreements, on telephone: 0800 95300662. Or appeal to the Independent Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal on telephone number: 01325 391051.
