The special educational needs (SEN) of most children will be met in early years settings and mainstream schools through additional help called Action and Action Plus. A very small number of children with severe and complex needs may require SEN provision to be made through a Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN).

To decide if a statement is necessary there will need to be a statutory assessment. A number of professionals are involved in the assessment, including the child's teachers, an educational psychologist, health services and any other services involved with the child. Parents, early years settings and schools may request an assessment.

The Parent Partnership Service can offer further information, leaflets and advice and can be contacted through the Education Office on the number shown below. 

Useful downloads Special Educational Needs: A Guide for Parents and Carers [466kb] Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) information leaflet62 pages) SEN Code of Practice [3Mb] File size: 3.24 Mb, 217 pages in total. Statutory Assessments and Statements - Information for parents and carers [222kb] 35 pages Appendix A - parental advice [39kb] Guidelines to help parents with their contribution to the statutory assessment     Weblinks Please note: All external websites open in a new browser window. North Yorkshire County Council is not responsible for the content of external websites. Direct.gov Special Educational Needs section Information for parents on special educational needs and disabilities SEN assessments - frequently asked questions What should I do if I am worried about my child's development at school? What are special educational needs? What if the school has concerns about my child's progress? What should I do if I am still unhappy about my child's progress? Can anyone else request an assessment? What happens next? Contacts The education office - Harrogate (general office) aandi.harrogate@northyorks.gov... Tel: 0845 0349467 Full details for The education office - Harrogate (general office) Special educational needs administration Full details for Special educational needs administration