What information should school provide for an assessment?

The short answer

School should describe what staff observe, where and when it happens, its effect on learning or participation, and the support available at the time. Useful information includes strengths, communication, attention, learning, relationships, sensory and motor access, self-care, attendance, transitions and recovery where known. It should compare easier and harder contexts, record provision tried and its effect, and distinguish direct observation from interpretation. A calm presentation at school does not cancel family information, and a difficult presentation does not establish a diagnosis. Screening forms are one source only. Ask the school to share a copy where possible and correct factual errors without asking it to change an honest professional view.

• Ask school for observations, context, frequency, impact and variation.
• Include strengths and conditions in which the child accesses learning more easily.
• Record the support delivered and its effect, not only that support exists.
• Keep direct observation, the child's account and interpretation distinct.
• Do not ask school to prove a diagnosis or force agreement with home.