What is a Statement of Special Educational Needs in Northern Ireland?
A Statement of Special Educational Needs is the statutory document used in Northern Ireland when the Education Authority decides a child needs provision that should be specified and arranged through the statutory process. It records needs, educational provision and placement information and must be reviewed at least annually.
Northern Ireland has its own SEN framework. England EHCP, Wales IDP and Scotland CSP guidance do not apply here.
What a statement contains
nidirect describes six parts covering general and assessment information, the child’s special educational needs, the special educational provision required, school or placement arrangements, non-educational needs and relevant non-educational provision.
The draft statement
Parents receive a draft before the statement is finalised. Part 4, which deals with the type and name of school and related placement arrangements, is left open at draft stage so parents can express a preference.
Time to comment
Current nidirect guidance says parents have 15 days to comment on the draft and indicate the school they want. Parents can ask to meet the EA, and the guidance explains further 15-day periods for additional meetings and comments where used.
What to check carefully
Check that each important need is described accurately, that the educational provision is clear enough to understand who should do what, and that the proposed placement can deliver the provision. Keep the draft, your written comments and the final version together.
After finalisation
The EA must review a Statement of SEN at least once a year. If needs, provision or placement change, the annual-review process can lead to amendments.
Official and authoritative sources
Department of Education NI — SEN Code of Practice
Education Authority — SEN Code of Practice and three stages
Education Authority — Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Community
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