You may find it helpful to use this checklist alongside the information given here, particularly with the Section headed "What is a Formal Assessment?".
It is intended to help you through the various stages of the formal assessment procedure and to provide you with an indication of the current position. The complicated procedures outlined in this information are a statutory requirement which the Authority is required to follow.
Letter 1
You have received a letter from us (the SEN Assessment and Development Officer) advising you that a formal assessment of your child's needs is proposed.
Date of letter ........................
With this letter is
- Booklet "My child
.My Story" Enclosed Yes/No
- Information for Parents Special Education Needs" Enclosed Yes/No
You have 29 days (from receipt of the letter) in which to respond.
You may either
- write down your comments about your child
and return it to us or
- tell us you are happy for the formal assessment
procedure to begin but your comments will follow later or
- tell us you wish to delay the formal assessment procedure,
explaining why or
- tell us you don't agree with the proposal to carry out a formal
assessment, giving your reasons.
We have 6 weeks to decide whether or not to assess your child.
Date .....................................
Letter 2
Following the 29 days or your response (whichever is the sooner) we write to you again, confirming that the formal assessment has commenced or that we will not be proceeding with the assessment.
Letter received Date ................................
The people listed below may contact you as part of the multi-professional assessment, as we will be seeking advice from them as part of the formal assessment procedure:
- teacher(s)
- doctor/other health service staff e.g. therapists
- educational psychologist
- social services
- any other people involved with
your child.
Note date of contact with any of these people .....................
A meeting to discuss the findings of the formal assessment may be arranged.
You will receive an invitation to attend
Date invitation received .............................
We have 12 weeks to seek advice and make a statement.
Date reply sent to confirm: ........................
We are able/unable to attend:
Date meeting arranged for:-
- When all the professional advice has been received and analysed, you will receive
Letter 3
Either We received:-
The proposed Statement of Special Proposed Statement StatementEducational Needs for your child, with a reply form,
Or
a letter confirming that a Statement is Letter.
not necessary explaining why, including
copies of the reports and advice obtained. Date:
- If you received a proposed Statement Reply form sent back
you will need to send your reply form back to us with any comments Within 15 days of receipt of Our response/comments were -
the proposed Statement
We have 8 weeks to make a final statement and advise you.
Letter 4
A copy of the final Statement is sent to you once everything is finalised and the final statement becomes a legally enforceable document.
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