I think my child needs help
1. What you might notice
Your child may find reading, writing, instructions, concentration, friendships or busy spaces difficult. Describe the difficulty rather than needing to identify a diagnosis yourself.
2. What to ask
- What have staff noticed, and what is going well?
- What help can start now, who will provide it and when will we review it?
3. What to record — and why
Specific task and date: A concrete example helps staff investigate rather than respond to a general label.
Your child’s words: Shows their perspective; distinguish their account from your observations.
What helps and existing strengths: Gives staff an approach to try, rather than recording difficulties alone.
School’s observations and agreed help: Creates a shared starting point and records any differences fairly.
4. An example
Fictional example, not an account of North Cestrian or a particular child.
My child says they lose track of instructions with several steps. Could we compare what happens in lessons and try one step at a time?
5. Your next step
Use the short support-request message and ask for a meeting with the teacher or SENCO. An EHCP is not required for SEN support.
Copy a preparation template
Complete your own copy outside this website. Use only the headings that help; the explanation above shows why each matters.
I think my child needs help — PRIVATE PREPARATION NOTE Specific task and date: [Your note] Your child’s words: [Your note] What helps and existing strengths: [Your note] School’s observations and agreed help: [Your note] Main question or action requested: [Your note] Agreed follow-up: [Your note]
Check the guidance
GOV.UK: SEN support
SEND Code of Practice
Guidance checked 14 October 2026. Check current rules before formal action.