Assessments by the Physical Disability team
Children and Young People (CYP) are assessed by highly experienced and knowledgeable Specialist Teacher Advisers, whose professional evaluation determines the nature and frequency of support provided. This support is then tailored to the individual complexity of each CYP’s needs. This practice also informs school practice, builds staff capacity and support succession planning in schools.
What happens at an assessment
Assessments are informal. Your child will be assessed by one of our teachers called a Specialist Teacher Adviser for Physical Disabilities or STA PD for short. They will liaise with the SENCo to determine their ability to function in the educational setting. Depending on the level of need, this may include an observation of your child playing or learning. They look specifically at:
- mobility
- gross and fine motor skills
- personal care
- self-help skills
Where the assessment take place
The initial assessment will usually take place in the educational setting, at pre-school, school or college. Occasionally we may make a home visit.
After the assessment
We will write record of our meeting or visit including any observations we make. If an EHCP is being requested and your child meets our criteria for involvement then we will write a report. These reports are shared with parents or carers and the educational setting.
Next steps
After the initial assessment we will determine ways in which we can support your child. If there is a need we may make a referral to the Assistive Technology team. The support we offer includes:
- signposting SENCos to training, resources or other services
- supporting your child to access the curriculum and be included equally with their peers in all school activities
- advising the setting on reasonable adjustments and strategies to ensure the best outcomes for your child
- providing advice on risk assessments and Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)
- facilitating equipment access and physical adaptations to the environment and school buildings where required
The package of support we provide may include a one-off consultation, short-term intervention or longer-term involvement. The frequency of our visits and any future assessments will depend on the needs of your child. Most children are seen once or twice a term while we ensure appropriate support is in place. Our involvement will then reduce but can resume if needs increase or when your child is due to transition to a new placement.