Asking for a statutory assessment

Use this model letter to write to your local authority asking for a statutory assessment. You can download this letter (DOC 20KB), which you can then edit and print out.

Date
 
Dear [Name of Director of Children’s Services],

I am writing to ask that you make a statutory assessment under the Education Act 1996 of my child’s educational needs.

I am concerned that my child is not learning as well as other children of the same age and I believe that they need more help than their nursery/school can provide without the help of a statement.

I understand you have six weeks to consider this request.

Yours faithfully
 
[Your name]

You should add any information you can to back up your concerns. This might include copies of reports you’ve received from health professionals, details of your child’s results in national tests and school reports. Including these supporting documents isn’t essential but it will help the local authority make the right decision.

If your child is at nursery or school, you can discuss this with the SENCO, the parent partnership service or voluntary organisations.