Getting Extra Help

Always the best first step is to talk to your child's school. If you feel there is a problem don't be put off by being told what a delightful young person they are, or everybody learns at a different rate. You may find that your school share your concerns, or that they agree to investigate further. You won't know until you have asked. Try not to dash into school at 5 minutes to 9 expecting to get your child's teachers full attention, instead make a mutually convenient appointment.

The Meeting

Prepare for the meeting; write notes in advance so that you can ensure that all the points you want are covered. Sometimes writing a letter in advance listing all the points you want to make can be helpful, if you do, keep a copy. It gives the school chance to investigate some of your concerns and helps avoid the meeting being adjourned because the necessary information is not available. If you are nervous take a partner, relative or friend. Don't be afraid to make notes at the meeting or ask to have terms you don't understand explained to you. It may be that there are simple things that school can do to make life easier for your child. Perhaps a change of seat if they are being distracted by a window, another child or cannot see the board. Tell the school about problems at home which could impact upon your child, a death or some other upset. The DFES publish a guide free of charge, which may be of help. Phone 084560 22260 and ask for 'Special Educational Needs A Parents Guide' and if you would like a more comprehensive guide then order the 'Special Educational Needs Code of Practice'. Both are free and will take just a few days to arrive. It may also be appropriate to ask your child for their views depending upon their age.

What do you want from the Meeting?

Many parents would like their child tested for Dyslexia. In Dudley funding is delegated to schools, your SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) will have a budget or a points system, which they can allocate where appropriate. Many parents find it impossible to get testing supplied by their school and look to private sources. There are Educational Psychologists in the yellow pages; many parents choose to use the Dyslexia Institute. Their website link is www.dyslexia-inst.org.uk and then go to assessment. They will be able to give you up to date price information but expect to pay £270. A full psychological assessment can be very useful, as it will highlight strengths as well as weaknesses. It will also contain a set of recommendations, which you can use to show what kind of special educational support is appropriate for your child. Have an idea before attending the meeting what you would like the outcome to be.

Outcomes

Of course we cannot predict what the outcome of your meeting will be. It may be that issues are easily resolved or you may completely disagree. Our help line can help with specific information, or attend one of our monthly information sessions. However if you disagree, go to a more senior person within the school, The head teacher or head governor. Look at the complaints tab if you want to take things further. You should know what level your child is on within school for receiving SEN support. It maybe school action or school action plus. Your parents guide will explain this further. You are entitled to have an Individual Education Plan drawn up for your child if they are on the SEN register. You must be asked to attend reviews of this plan. It should be reviewed twice yearly at least. Keep an eye on what is happening within school: is the plan being implemented as promised?