At SENAC we help children get the right support in school…
SENAC advises on the Northern Ireland statutory SEN system. We give information and advice on getting help and support in school for children with learning difficulties and special educational needs (SEN). Our service is independent and confidential.
GET YOUR CHILD THE HELP THEY NEED…
1: My child is struggling in school, what can I do?
If you feel your child is struggling at school, you should first speak to the class teacher and/or the SENCo to find out the view of the school. SENAC have…
2: How to request a Statutory Assessment of my child’s needs in school?
What is a Statutory Assessment? A statutory Assessment is a full assessment of your child’s educational needs which is carried out by the Education Authority (EA) at Stage 4 (new…
3: What is a Statement?
A Statement of Special Educational Needs (Statement) is a legal document which sets out a child’s educational needs and outlines how the Education Authority (EA) will meet those needs in…
4: How long should it take to complete a Statutory Assessment?
If the Education Authority agree that your child needs a statutory assessment the process should be carried out within 26 weeks. View TIMELINE for Statutory Assessment
5: Personal Learning Plan/Individual Education Plan
The new SEN Code of Practice is not yet operative however, a number of provisions within the SEND Act (NI) 2016 are being phased into the system. Children are now…
6: What will happen at the Annual Review and Transition Planning?
What is an Annual Review? All Statements of Special Educational Needs (Statement) are reviewed within a period of twelve months to ensure that the child or young person’s needs are…
7: My child is on a reduced timetable, what can I do?
All children of compulsory school age are entitled to a full-time education in line with legislation. It is unlawful for a school to discriminate against a pupil for a reason…
8: How do I provide parental information for Statutory Assessment?
Parental representations When you receive a ‘Notice of Consideration’ letter from the Education Authority (EA) saying that they are considering carrying out a Statutory Assessment you will be asked for…
9: How can I get transport arranged?
Where children have special transport needs, officers of the Education Authority (EA) will assess the child’s needs by taking medical and other advice as required and make appropriate arrangements. Transport…
10: Can I make a complaint to the Education Authority?
Making a complaint to the Education Authority There are a number of ways you can make a comment or complaint to the Education Authority (EA) telephone the Complaints office on…
11: Can I appeal a decision made by the Education Authority?
In particular situations, some matters are appealable. For example, if you do not agree with a decision made about the special education provision your child has been offered by the Education…
12: Can I ask the EA for a reassessment of my child’s educational needs?
You can ask for a statutory re-assessment if: you believe that your child’s needs have changed since the last Statement was issued, or if you believe that a different kind…
About us
The Special Educational Needs Advice Centre (SENAC) is charity in Northern Ireland which was set up in 2003. We offer confidential, independent advice and advocacy for children and young people with disabilities and special educational needs (SEN)
SENAC places the focus on the needs of the child. We work with parents, schools and education bodies. Together we aim to ensure that children get the right support and resources according to their learning needs.
Donations Make a Huge Difference
Thanks to our funders and the generosity of the public SENAC have been able to provide a free service to parents since 2003. We need your help. Your support will give children with additional needs the chance to succeed in education and develop their personal potential. SENAC are very grateful for all donations, large or small.
