Statements of SEN
What is a Statement?
A Statement of Special Educational Needs is a legally binding document setting out the details of special needs which your child is considered to have.
The Pupil Service Officer who visits you is responsible for requesting people involved with your child’s assessment to provide ‘advice’ in report form for the preparation of the ‘Proposed’ Statement of Special Educational Needs and later on the ‘Final’ Statement.
Once the decision to issue a Statement of Special Educational Needs has been made, you will be sent the “Proposed Statement” together with copies of the advice from professionals and others which was considered in drawing it up. All parts of the statement except part 4 (naming the school) will be completed. The Pupil Service Officer will make an appointment to meet you to discuss the proposed statement, including which school you would like your child to go to. Your views will be very carefully considered.
Your views are important and are welcomed. You have 15 days to respond. The Pupil Service Officer can discuss with you any points not already dealt with in relation to the proposed statement.
How is a statement of Special Educational Needs set out?
The way a statement is set out is described in the SEN & Disability Act 2001.
They are set out in six parts
Part 1: This contains information such as your child’s name, date of birth, address, and the parent’s or guardian’s details. You should check these details thoroughly and report any details that are incorrect.
Part 2: This describes your child’s special educational needs.
Part 3: This sets out the objectives and different types of help the Local Authority sets out to provide for your child.
Part 4: This is where the Local Authority states the ‘Named School’. In the proposed statement this section is left blank. The Officer will discuss schools and placements with you before the statement is finalised.
Part 5: This describes areas where your child may need help or involvement from services other than the Local Authority such as the Primary Care Trust. Details as to whether School Transport is required to be provided is given here.
Part 6: This section contains an outline of the type of help and involvement that The Primary Care Trust may provide and details of any School Transport provision being made.