Annual review of a Statement of SEN in Northern Ireland: what parents should know

Before the meeting

Ask for the current statement and recent school or professional reports. Write down what has improved, what remains difficult, which provision has or has not been delivered, and any changes you want considered.

At the review

The meeting should look at written reports and the statement itself. Parents can contribute views and evidence, and the child should be involved appropriately. You may take a friend or independent adult for support.

What happens after

nidirect says the school should send parents a copy of its review report, and the headteacher sends the report and recommendations to the EA within ten working days of the meeting or by the end of term, whichever is sooner.

Changing the statement

The EA may decide to amend the statement after review. If you disagree with a proposed or final decision, ask for the reasons and available challenge route in writing rather than relying only on an informal discussion.

Use the review for transitions

Annual review is also an important place to plan changes of school, key education stages and preparation for adult life, especially as the pupil approaches post-primary and 14+ transition planning.