The importance of checking in with the SENCO / class teacher.

As many parents know the complexity of gaining a EHCP that is fit for purpose means that regular check ins with the class teacher is important. I speak from experience that you want to trust those delivering the provisons set out in the document, however what is legally documented doesn't mean your child is getting what is set out. So after all the tramua off getting your child or young persons EHCP, you mean it's not over??

As a parent, it's a matter of asking how the provisons are being delivered, by whom and the evidence to back it up. Many of our children and young people cannot express what is happening day to day for there own reasons. So as a parent it can be very hard to know what the day looks like other than information sent via the school. Not all schools use communication books, some use apps and some, arent specific in sharing information you request. I know this first hand as a parent and then as a professional working with parents over a decade that it's not all what it appears on paper.

I also want you to know that when researching schools your first stop is always the website. Let me tell you again what is stated on the school website is not always what is delivered or worst still not endorsed by the department of education or the lastest in gold standard teaching. How do I know this, after many years experience I recall a conversation with a client who was a professional that had very good knowledge of up to date resources and teaching material that through research had been recognised and endorsed by the department of education. Always view schools on a open day or on a non planned event so there is no frills experience, you see the school in a normal day to day running. A chance to speak with the SENCO or inculsion staff can be really helpful, as you can ask specific questions related to your child or young person. As a parent why would we question what you see or hear, I'm here to tell you that its okay to question it. After all its your child that matters not upsetting professionals, your asking or questioning because you need to be clear that the provisons are being delivered. I speak openly, Quite frankly if there upset it is because they have something to be embarrassed about not you.

Another problem I have come up against is staff haven't accessed training in neurodivergence some smaller setting often haven't had the experience of a child with ADHD, Speech and language disorders or severe dyslexia. Again ask the question, do you have experience, some TA's go into the role as they themselves have a child that is not neuro typical what ever that means!! I speak from a place of kindness, anything that your questioning do your homework, don't ignore things just because you have the EHCP and surely the school wouldn't not meet all the provisons laid out in the plan. We can trust the school is doing everything that is in the EHCP.

Once things have started to be implemented, give it half a term and ask for a catch up. It's okay to ask, never feel like your being a pain. Request in a email, rather than catching the teacher at the beginning or end of the day. That way it's less stressful for you and your also backing up in writing you've requested a opportunity to catch up. Now all you need to do is be brave, speak up and good luck.

I hope you've found this helpful, please do read my other blogs and newly launched Podcast on Spotify