What Is The SEN Code Of Practice?

The Special Educational Needs Code of Practice is a legal document which provides practical advice to schools, governors, early years settings and local authorities on the educational provision they make for children with Special Educational Needs. Schools and local authorities must have regard to this document.

A revised guide to SEN for parents and carers was published in 2009 and can be ordered free of charge from 0845 602 2260 (quote reference number DCSF-00639-2008BKT-EN.)  See the useful links page for a PDF version of the guide.

Formal Statutory Assessment

Children with long term severe or complex needs may require a statutory assessment. For many children, following a graduated approach, a statutory assessment will follow School / Early Years Action and School / Early Years Action Plus.

The request for formal assessment can be made by a parent or carer, a school or a specialist who has been working with the child. The LA then write to the parent and other agencies to inform them about the request and ask if they have any information to contribute. The request is considered by a Moderating Panel and the LA has 6 weeks to let you know whether or not to make an assessment. Calderdale Parent Partnership Service offers training in making a request for statutory assessment, which is free to parents, although we make a small charge for professionals.

If the request is turned down, only the parent can appeal against the decision. The appeal is made to an independent tribunal, and Calderdale Parent Partnership Service can help parents in this process. Please contact us for help if you are thinking about making an appeal.

More information can be found in our Code Of Practice leaflet.