How do we identify and assess children with SEN?

We aim to identify children who have any difficulties as soon as possible so that appropriate support can be given from an early age. Full use is made of information passed to the school when a child transfers from early education provision and we use assessments during the Foundation Stage to identify pupils and any difficulties they may have (observations on entry, Foundation Stage Profile, teacher assessment/observation). Other methods used by teachers to identify pupils with SEN are as follows:

  • Discussion with parent/carer to see if they have noticed anything/have any concerns
  • Ongoing teacher assessment and observation
  • Progress against the Early Learning Goals in the Foundation Stage
  • Progress against Literacy and Numeracy Objectives
  • Performance against National Curriculum level descriptors
  • Results from SATs (end of Years 2 and 6) and optional SATs tests in Years 3 to 5 and teacher assessment in Year 1.

If it seems that your child may have special educational needs, your child’s class teacher or the Special Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) will assess:

  • What your child is good at and what they need help with
  • What your child would benefit from learning
  • How best to help your child learn

Once provision is identified, time is allocated to individuals or groups to best suit their learning style, ability and need.