Independent guide · North Cestrian parents

Help your child get the support they need.

Clear questions, practical templates and next steps for parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Independent of the school and its trust. Sources checked 14 October 2026.

What do you need help with?

My child is strugglingUnderstand support and ask school for help. →My child has received a sanctionCheck the reason, fairness, support and next step. →Support is not happeningCheck the plan and keep a clear record. →I need school recordsAsk for information or make a records request. →I want to record what happenedCopy a template with examples and explanations. →School has sent my child homeFind what to record and what to ask next. →My concern is not resolvedFind the right route for your next step. →I need to make a complaintSee North Cestrian’s stages and timeframes. →

More ways to get help

Everyday parent guidesAttendance, exams, bullying, EHCPs and more →Tell OfstedParent View and complaints →Independent adviceTrafford SENDIASS and local advice across England →Using AI safelyDraft clearly and check the facts →Examples and common questionsSee what this looks like in practice →