Statutory Assessment

Requesting a formal assessment from the Education Authority

If school-based stages aren't enough, you or the school can ask the Education Authority (EA) to carry out a statutory assessment, which can lead to a Statement of SEN.

Your rights: The EA must decide whether to assess within a defined statutory period, and parents have a right to appeal a refusal to SENDIST.

Common pitfall: NI's reforms (under the 2016 Act) have been rolled out gradually — confirm with the EA which procedures currently apply to your child.

Your voice: You can request a statutory assessment yourself — you don't need the school to agree first. Your written account of need is valid evidence alongside the school's.

• Submit a written request to the EA, with supporting evidence

• Ask for confirmation of receipt and the decision timeline

• If assessment is refused, request the reasons in writing — this is appealable