Special educational needs in Northern Ireland

In short

• Special educational needs (SEN) in Northern Ireland are guided by the SEN Code of Practice, which describes how schools and the Education Authority should work together.
• Support is usually described in stages, starting with help within the school.
• The Education Authority (EA) carries out statutory assessments and decides whether a statement of special educational needs is needed.
• Appeals are heard by the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST).
• This guide covers Northern Ireland only. Check the current rules before you act, as the system is changing.

The SEN Code of Practice

The Special Educational Needs Code of Practice for Northern Ireland gives practical guidance on how schools and other bodies should identify, assess and meet special educational needs. It is the main reference point for parents and schools. The Code describes how support should be planned and reviewed, and how families should be involved.

The system has been under review, and a new Code has been drafted. The position on which framework is in force can change, so check the latest guidance from the Department of Education or the Education Authority before making decisions.

Stages of support

Under the current framework, support is commonly described in stages:

• The early stages happen in school. The school identifies the child's needs and puts support in place, usually with help from the school's SEN co-ordinator and class teacher.
• Further stages involve more specialist input. This can include advice from outside professionals and reviews of the support plan.
• If a child needs more than the school can provide, the school or parents can ask the Education Authority to consider a statutory assessment.

Ask the school which stage your child is at, and what the next step is.

Statutory assessment and statements

A statutory assessment is carried out by the Education Authority when the child's needs are complex and the school cannot meet them alone. The Education Authority decides whether a statement of special educational needs is needed. A statement sets out the child's needs and the special educational provision that must be made for them.

You can ask for an assessment in writing. Keep a copy of your request, and ask the Education Authority to confirm when it has been received and what will happen next.

Working with the Education Authority

The Education Authority is responsible for making decisions about statutory assessments and statements. It also works with schools, health services and families. When you contact it, include your child's name, date of birth, school and a short summary of the difficulties and the support you have already tried.

Ask for decisions in writing, including the reasons. If you disagree with a decision, check what your options are before the deadline passes.

Appeals and disputes

The Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST) hears appeals about some SEN decisions. Before going to the tribunal, you may be able to resolve the disagreement through the Dispute Avoidance and Resolution Service (DARS). Check what that service offers and whether it applies to your situation, as the process may differ depending on the decision you are challenging.

Getting advice

Independent advice can help you understand the process. Your school's SEN co-ordinator, your GP and local voluntary organisations can also point you towards support. For the most up-to-date guidance, check the nidirect website and the Education Authority.

Practical steps

• Ask the school to explain the current stage of support.
• Request a written support plan, and ask when it will be reviewed.
• Ask in writing for a statutory assessment if you think it is needed.
• Keep copies of all letters, reports and decisions.
• Check deadlines for any appeal as soon as you receive a decision.

This guide is general information, not legal advice.