Contents

This page provides you with links to the contents of A guide for parents - Special educational needs.

Introduction

• Points you should keep in mind
• What are special educational needs?

Children under school age

• What can I do if I think my child has a learning difficulty before starting school?
• What help can my child get before starting school?

Children at school

• What can I do if I think my child has a learning difficulty at school?
• What is the Code of Practice?
• What are the three stages set out in the Code of Practice?

Assessments and statements

• What is a statutory assessment?
• What if the Board decides not to assess my child?
• How can I be involved in the assessment?
• What is a statement?
• Can I choose my child's school?
• What if I disagree with the final statement?
• What if the Board decides that my child does not need a statement?
• How long should the assessment process take?
• Annual review of the statement
• Can changes be made to the statement?
• How long does a statement last?
• Can I ask for my child to be assessed again?
• What happens if I move to another Board area?

Concerns about your child's education

• Dealings with the school and the Board
• Appeals to the Special Educational Needs Tribunal
• Complaints to the Department and the Ombudsman

Choices after age 16

Educating sick children

Definitions

Other free publications

Addresses of the Education and Library Boards