Working with your child's school: who to talk to

Parents often do not know where to start when they are worried about their child's learning. The answer is usually the class teacher first, then the SENCO.

The order that works

1. Class teacher — what do they see day to day? Ask for specific examples.
2. SENCO — what support is in place, and what has already been tried?
3. Head of year or phase lead — if support is not moving.
4. Local authority SEND service — for advice, and for EHCP requests.

Make the meeting useful

Bring three things: what you have noticed at home, what has already been tried, and one specific question. Write down what is agreed and when it will be reviewed.

Share what works

If private tuition is helping, tell the school what changed. Schools are far more likely to build on an approach that is already showing results.