School-based stages

Stages 1–3 of the NI Code of Practice

Northern Ireland uses a staged model, with early stages managed by the school using its own resources, with input from the Education Authority's specialist services as needs increase.

Your rights: Schools must use their best endeavours to meet need at each stage before a formal statutory assessment is considered.

Common pitfall: Movement between stages isn't always clearly explained to parents — ask for this in writing at every review.

Your voice: You're entitled to be consulted at every stage, and your observations of how your child copes outside school can justify moving to the next stage sooner.

• Ask which 'stage' your child is currently recorded at, and why

• Request copies of any Individual Education Plan (IEP) targets

• Ask the school to involve EA outreach or specialist support services if progress stalls